One Last Welcome

President's Convocation marks end of Wildcat Welcome orientation

By Brendan Cosgrove

AUDIO: President Morton Schapiro tells the Class of 2015 what he likes most about Northwestern

AUDIO: Vice President for Student Affairs Patricia Telles-Irvin talks to the Class of 2015 about the Northwestern experience

The Northwestern University Class of 2015 ended their week of Wildcat Welcome orientation activities Monday with the President’s Convocation. Speakers offering advice to the more than 2,000 members of the freshman class included Dean of Students Burgwell Howard, University President Morton Schapiro and new Vice President for Student Affairs Patricia Telles-Irvin.

"Here at Northwestern, you have the opportunity to build a great story,” Telles-Irvin said. “My advice to you is, don't let anything stop you from making that happen."

Linda Hicke, associate vice president for research and professor of molecular biosciences, discussed this year's One Book One Northwestern selection, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot. As the faculty director for the community reading project, Hicke encouraged students to participate in a variety of upcoming programs related to the subject of the book.

A portion of the Northwestern University Wildcat Marching Band provided a spirited soundtrack to the event and a capella group Freshman 15 also performed.

With Wildcat Welcome coming to an end, reality sets in Tuesday when classes begin.