Hundreds of new SJC Brooklyn students donned their cap and gowns for the College’s Investiture ceremony on Aug. 31. An annual tradition for more than 100 years, Investiture marks the first academic event of the year for the freshman class, and is an opportunity for family members and loved ones to see their children make the leap to college life.
A leap that takes great courage, not just for students, but for parents as well, according to SJC President Donald Boomgaarden, Ph.D.
“As a parent, it’s very difficult to let go of your child,” said Dr. Boomgaarden. “No matter how well prepared they are. No matter how brilliant they may be. And so there are a lot of parents here today who are doing that as an act of courage.”
Investiture symbolizes the beginning of a new student’s education at SJC by investing, or clothing, all members of the Class of 2021 and new transfer students. Clad in academic attire, the young men and women who entered the College in the fall of 2017 are formally assembled for the first time as the Class of 2021, where esteemed faculty deliver words of encouragement and knowledge.
You’ve shown courage by coming to St. Joseph’s. You’ve shown courage by deciding to take a chance, and to be with us.” — President Donald Boomgaarden, Ph.D.
In addition to Dr. Boomgaarden, SJC Brooklyn’s Investiture faculty speakers included McEntegart Library Associate Director Lauren Kehoe and Interim Executive Dean Michael Hanophy, Ph.D.
“I welcome our newest students, those who come to us from other institutions as well as those who are new to college — the Class of 2021,” said Dr. Hanophy. “There are no endings, there are only new beginnings. And to reinforce that, we invite you today to officially join the St. Joseph’s College community of learners at this, our 102nd Investiture ceremony.”
After Dr. Hanophy and Ms. Kehoe’s remarks, the Class of 2021 recited the SJC Student Pledge and processed to the stage, one by one, to receive a ceremonial College Investiture pin.
The formal welcome to St. Joseph’s College ended with an ovation for the future of our newest class. A future which takes not only courage, but a brave sense of discovery.
“I assure you, you are in very good hands. (Members of the SJC faculty) are here to help you and guide you in your four years with us,” said Dr. Boomgaarden. “You’ve shown courage by coming to St. Joseph’s. You’ve shown courage by deciding to take a chance, and to be with us.”
At SJC Brooklyn's 2017 Investiture, we symbolized the beginning of your education at #SJCNY by investing, or clothing,…
Posted by St. Joseph's College NY on Friday, September 1, 2017
