University Plaza Takes Center Stage for Convocation Celebrations

By Leigh DuPuy

A campus alive with the return of students will celebrate them throughout UMass Boston's convocation activities held on September 17. Events ranging from a debate on environmental public policy, a barbecue and tour of student offerings, and a festival of music offer something for everyone in the university community.

The day will open with the 2003 Convocation breakfast for faculty and staff to be held in the Ryan Lounge at 8:30 a.m. "The breakfast is a good way to gather with friends and colleagues and talk about the forthcoming academic year," says Chancellor Gora, "and to recognize the significant progress that we made last year in realizing our institutional goals."

The university community is then invited to attend the main convocation address, "Environmental Sciences, Public Policy, and Human Well-Being," given by Washington policy expert Gregory Wetstone, on the University Plaza at 10:30 a.m. Director of advocacy for the Natural Resources Defense Council, Wetstone is a passionate opponent of the Bush Administration's environmental policy. A roundtable discussion will continue the debate on such critical issues as global warming, air pollution, forest policy, wildlife laws, and public health.

To follow, the university plaza will become the stage for a wide range of student offerings, including a free barbecue worked by university staff volunteers and a chance to tour the "Passport to Discovery" exhibit along the plaza. Modeled in the spirit of last year's successful "Hidden Jewels of the University," the event gives students an opportunity to learn about dozens of campus departments and programs. Those students who turn in a completed and stamped "passport" are eligible to win prizes, including a semester parking pass, campus bookstore gift certificate, and a tuition-free semester.

The day's events will culminate in the Fest-of-Us celebration, in which UMass Boston bands and top local musicians rock the plaza. The award-winning local rock band Bleu, the Phoenix/WFNX Best Local Male Vocalist for 2003, will headline the event and hip-hop artist Baba will serve as emcee.
For more information see calendar listings and signage around campus, or visit www.umb.edu/festofus.

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