Governors State University held its 2024 convocation on Friday, Sep. 6. The ceremony welcomed new and returning students and celebrated faculty and staff achievements, marking the official start of the academic year.
Student Senate President Xavier Thompson welcomed the incoming freshman class to GovState. “This Academic Year marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter in your lives, Thompson said. “Know that you have arrived at a place brimming with opportunities where your dreams and aspirations will take shape. This university is a place where knowledge meets creativity, where friendships blossom and where you’ll discover more about yourself than you ever thought you could.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address by alumnus Colton Krska. Krska, now a CPA, is also a two-time graduate of GSU. He shared some memories from his journey and emphasized the importance of embracing the present and future while learning from the past.
GovState President Dr. Cheryl Green delivered remarks emphasizing the transformative power of education. “Your education is not just about personal growth; it’s about empowering you to make a difference in the world,” Green said, “As you begin this academic year, I encourage you to dream big. Challenge yourself and seize every opportunity that comes your way. Engage in discussions, participate in research, join student organizations and make your voices heard. Your ideas and actions have the power to not only shape this university but also the communities we serve.”
Toward the ceremony’s conclusion, Green announced the Baysore Distinguished Service Award and Excellence Award recipients. The 2024 Baysore Distinguished Service Award, named in honor of former GovState associate vice president Gerald C. Baysore, was awarded to John Potempa, the associate vice president of facilities development and management at GovState.
Excellence Award winners were Associate Professor Dr. Nicole Bing, Assistant Professor Dr. Katherine Carl and University Lecturer Aslam Shahid. Dr. Joi Patterson, chief diversity officer, also recognized five groups of DEI grant award winners for their projects promoting inclusivity and equity on campus.
At the closing, Dr. Marlon Cummings, division chair, education and leadership and master of ceremonies for the convocation, presented Green with a surprise award. Cummings announced the “Dr. Cheryl F. Green Scholarship for Societal Impact” in honor of Green, who will be retiring in March 2025. The scholarship recognizes her dedication to public service and education. It will support students pursuing careers in public service and community impact and will be granted through the GovState Foundation.
After convocation, students, faculty and staff were invited to an ice cream social on the Hall of Governors patio.