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What are convocations?

Derived from the Latin word convocare, convocation means "to call or come together."  In other words, it is a formal assembly of people. The Lawrence community formally assembles three times during the academic year:

• Matriculation Convocation
  Welcomes students, faculty, and staff back to campus. Delivered by the University president in September, it marks the start of the new academic year. 
• University Convocation
  Shares ideas and provides insight on contemporary issues. Invited by the faculty Convocations and Commencement Committee, this address is delivered by individuals of high accomplishment in their respective field and takes place during the winter.
• Honors Convocation
  Celebrates the end of the academic year. Delivered by a member of the Lawrence community, students and faculty achievements are given special recognition.  

2025–2026 Convocation Series

Convocations are held in the Lawrence Memorial Chapel and are free and open to the public.

Matriculation Convocation

President Laurie A. Carter 

Friday, September 19, 2025, 12:30 p.m.

University Convocation 

Astead W. Hendon, national politics reporter for The New York Times, political analyst for CNN, and host of the politics podcast “The Run-Up” 

Friday, January 23, 2026, 12:30 p.m.

Honors Convocation

Sara Ceballos, Associate Professor of Music, and Danielle Joyner, Associate Professor of Art History "Hildegard of Bingen on How To Find Your Place in the Universe" 

Friday, May 29, 2026, 12:30 p.m.