HU begins 175th year with spirited, inspiring Opening Convocation

There’s just something about this school year that feels extra special. It is the beginning of the university’s 175th year.

“Since 1850, we have remained steadfast Opportunity Makers on a mission defined by your success as a student, through your graduation, into your careers, and spanning the arc of your lives of purpose with distinction,” President Rob Huntington told the Class of 2028, as they made their debut at Thursday’s Opening Convocation – the official launch of the 2024-25 academic year.

The energy in Seiberling Gymnasium was raucous as returning students and staff filled the bleachers to help welcome 325 first-year, transfer and re-enrolled students. It’s a rite of passage into the Heidelberg family.

Ceremonially ushered in by their faculty members, new students processed into the gym, many wearing their beanies for the first time. The event kicked off with the typical pomp and circumstance as a bookend to the same tradition the class will celebrate when they graduate.

Provost Courtney DeMayo Pugno told the students that the faculty, coaches and staff “love working with all of you.”

“They’re here to help you accomplish your goals and help you achieve your life of purpose with distinction,” she said. “Take the time to forge relationships with these people.”

In his official welcome, President Huntington encouraged the students to get engaged and be intentional about everything they imagine, knowing that sometimes they’ll fall short. “Sometimes, we trip, get knocked down, or fall short of his goals. It happens to all of us. That is life. What matters is how we respond. Reset to refocus, get back up, try again. … In this caring community, please know that you are not alone,” he said.

'These years at Heidelberg will shape you in ways you can’t yet imagine'

Keynote speaker Haylie Robinson ’15 lent her own practical advice as the Convocation keynote speaker. A media professional and executive producer, Haylie shared her career journey, including her current success, Finding Festivals, a series she independently produces on PBS.

As a ‘Berg student, Haylie was highly engaged on campus, in communication & media and Greek life. Those experiences taught her leadership and set her on her career path. Her success is rooted in large part in the relationships she made at Heidelberg, which led to her first piece of advice: Make time for relationships. “Over the course of your Heidelberg experience, you’ll develop a network of people you can call upon when building your career,” she said.

Second piece of advice: Aspire to be who you are 10 years from now. Initially studying the music industry and joining the choir, Haylie rediscovered her true passion through a communication class with Dr. Julie O’Reilly. It’s where she was first drawn to storytelling. Influences from professors and classes taught her that “titles don’t give you value. It’s how you treat others, build trust and show respect to your collaborators that makes you influential.”

Third, It’s not about being perfect. It’s about giving your best. Haylie learned this through her experiences as a member of the Philalethean Society. She leaned into it when applying for an internship with the Emmys. She worked toward the internship for more than a year, but ultimately didn’t get it because she didn’t feel like she gave her best.

“I learned two very important things out of that experience. First, never settle for a lesser goal because you think it’s more achievable or will avoid disappointment. Second, you don’t have to be perfect, but you always have to give it your best, even if your best is only 50 percent.”

Finally, Stop waiting for permission. After a career setback and a “mini pity party,” Haylie realized that she wouldn’t wait for someone else to believe in her if she didn’t believe in herself. “Don’t let someone’s approval of your insecurities keep you from going after your dream.”

“These years at Heidelberg will shape you in ways you can’t yet imagine,” she concluded. “The foundation you build here will support you throughout your life. Make the most of every opportunity and you’ll leave here ready to conquer the world.”

Many thanks …

Many thanks to the students and faculty who made this year’s Convocation memorable, including: the Heidelberg University Marching Band under the direction of new faculty member Dr. Ben Herrick; seniors Jacob Reuter and Zaria Keys, who performed the Star-Spangled Banner and Lift Every Voice and Sing, respectively; Chaplain Karsten Snitker for a thoughtful invocation; Student Senate President Conor Sukel, a junior, who introduced the keynote speaker; Ashley Helmstetter, Associate Vice President for Advancement, Alumni, and Community Relations, who shared the history and meaning of Heidelberg’s traditions; and the Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Gregory Ramsdell, who performed Sweet Alma Home.