Students Welcomed at Convocation Ceremony

“Today you sit here at the starting line, but know this, you belong here, you are capable and together we will create something extraordinary.”

Those were the words of encouragement from senior education major Makena Northcutt, who spoke to a large crowd of students gathered for 2025 Convocation inside Founders Auditorium Aug. 25.

Northcut recounted the many opportunities she has experienced through Ohio State Mansfield, including her time as a Buckeye Ambassador and most recently, a summer experience that allowed her to teach STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics), at military bases as far west as California.

She shared personal challenges she has experienced, and reminded students that they, too, will be challenged in life. At Ohio State Mansfield, they can count on a strong network of support from fellow students, professors and advisors. 

“I’ve learned that some of the most meaningful parts of life don’t happen according to a plan that you have made up,” she said. “Sometimes the hardest and most unexpected paths can lead to the most beautiful moments.” 

Campus Dean Jason Opal said it’s common for students to feel some anxiety at the start of a new year. Anxiety can stem from schoolwork, or the larger issues happening in the world. Whatever the cause, he encouraged them that their education will be a stronghold in the face of adversity.

“By sharing the moment that we are now sharing, you are securing yourself against the relentless changes of the world and you are building many futures around and in front of you,” he said.

Opal encouraged students to challenge themselves with new opportunities, broaden their education and make the Mansfield campus uniquely their own.

“Let there be no mistake or forgetting that you are now students of one of the biggest, most influential, most respected universities in the United States of America.,” he said. “Work hard here, stay on that path, finish your degree and you will have many choices in life.”

Agusti Munoz-Garcia, associate professor of evolution, ecology and organismal biology, told students their success depends 70 percent on their own effort, and 30 percent on the support they receive.

He said the faculty and staff of Ohio State Mansfield understands their situation, whatever it may be, and is here for their support.

“You’re going to invest time and a lot of money and you’re going to add some more complications in your life, but be sure that the faculty and staff here will help you succeed and support you,” he said.

The ceremony also included presentations from associate deans Dawn Kitchen, professor of anthropology, and Cynthia Callahan, associate professor of English. The Autumn Semester officially began Aug. 26 and Welcome Week activities will continue through Sept. 7.