Events & CalendarsOpening Convocation

Opening Convocation is the first formal gathering of the first-year students, at which the president and the faculty, typically all in full regalia, welcome the students to the college. It is also the time when newly promoted professors are awarded honorary degrees from Amherst College. The traditional ceremony involves a formal procession, musicians and the College's Choral Society and is typically held on the first evening of the fall semester.

Convocation is intended for faculty and first-year students. Since this year's Convocation will be held virtually, it is open to all members of the campus community via the livestream. A video recording and a transcript of Opening Convocation will be available after the event.