Welcoming the Class of 2025

In the College’s first in-person Convocation since 2019, Kenyon greets a new cohort of thinkers and learners.

By David Hoyt
Date
Class of 2025 purple banner

“As we come together today, the members of the class of 2025 are preparing to take a leap — actually, not just a single leap, but a series of leaps that will stretch over the next four years. Some of those began yesterday: stepping into Peirce to make new friends, introducing yourself to your orientation group, meeting your academic advisor.

 

“Later you will start classes, write your first paper, take your first exam. Eventually you will apply for summer experiences, start an internship, perhaps study abroad. Each situation is a new environment, each requiring you to make decisions on how to successfully navigate a new set of challenges."

The Class of 2025 arrives at Kenyon

On Sunday, Aug. 22, new first-year and transfer students, alongside their families and Kenyon faculty and staff, were welcomed to Kenyon in a traditional Convocation ceremony held in front of Samuel Mather Hall.

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Over 500 students — many in Gambier, but also several dozen who will launch their Kenyon careers in Copenhagen — comprise the extraordinary Class of 2025.

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Associate Professor of Political Science Abbie Erler serves as faculty marshal, carrying the College’s ceremonial mace as she prepares to lead the Convocation procession.

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Faculty gather in front of the new Chalmers Library to greet new students as they process down Middle Path.

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Mayor of Gambier Leeman Kessler ’04 applauds new students as they enter Convocation.

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The Class of 2025 hails from 45 states and 23 countries and graduated from 485 high schools. Nearly 20% identify as students of color and 12% are international.

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“Welcome to the Hill, this special place that will soon feel like home. Here, you’ll be pushed hard to think, to question, to research, to read, and to write, all with astonishing clarity.” — President Sean Decatur

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“Becoming a Kenyon student is intentional, and the power to define what this experience will be for you is in your hands.” — Student Council President Micah Smith ’22

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“We’re here because we made an intentional decision to be here, in this beautiful place, in this magical community of thinkers and learners.” — Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Diane Anci

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“Classmates, roommates, faculty, coaches, staff will inspire, encourage, and occasionally infuriate you. Your impact on one another will endure.” — Chaplain Rachel Kessler ’04  

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“This is a time of year when, to me, the air feels charged with potential.” — Dean of Students Robin Hart Ruthenbeck  

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“Many of you chose Kenyon because you are eager to engage in deep reflection upon and discussion of critical issues — including climate change, racism, political polarization, economic inequality. You are, in other words, not only eager to learn but also to make a difference.” — Provost Jeff Bowman  

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“This is the place I learned how to live happily inside my own skin, heart and head in sync.” — Susan Berger ’85, member of the Board of Trustees

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After a virtual Convocation last year, this year’s incoming students — whose college admission journey unfolded start-to-finish during a global pandemic — were able to enjoy a traditional in-person Convocation with their families. 

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Opening Convocation is the first of the formal ceremonies that frame the academic year at Kenyon College. This ceremony is a deliberate reflection of the graduation ceremony that students will go through at the end of their Kenyon career.