FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 22, 2019

Contact: Jason Hogue, Director of Marketing and Communications, 402-872-2429

 

Peru, Nebraska – The day after classes began, Peru State College hosted Convocation for its largest freshman class in at least thirty years. Each attending student received a commemorative coin. The coin features the College seal on one side and “Class of 2023” on the other.

The new students were grouped by their intended major – from art to undeclared – and seated beside faculty from their College 101 courses. An enthusiastic faculty sat across from the students, many adorned in their academic regalia. 

Dr. Timothy Borchers, Vice President of Academic Affairs, began the event, greeting the incoming class. “We’re here to mark the next milestone in your academic journey. May 5, 2023, is a day you should all have marked in your calendar.”  

“That’s the day we’ll meet back here, in a very similar setting, to celebrate your graduation from Peru State College. Today, we’re making a formal commitment to each other to achieve that goal of graduation.” 

Borchers also offered the advice, “Come to class, ask questions, seek assistance, and be persistent.” 

Borchers appears on stage in the distance behind a sea of students.

Dr. Tim Borchers speaks to a large crowd of new freshmen.

 Dr. Dan Hanson, President of the College, spoke next, “last I spoke to you, I gave you three steps you need to take, they were pretty basic. One is go to class each day. Another is to set aside some time and a place to study.’ Finally, get to know the faculty and staff. They’re here to help you on this journey, so if you have questions about financial aid, or the business office, or the administration, they’re here to help you.” 

Student Senate President, Tyler Harms, told the group, “Living on a small campus, we all make strong connections very easily. And because of this, I encourage you to talk to other students, make those networking connections with students and faculty. Because later on, they will be your references, and they will help you along the way.” 

Dr. Ahmad gave the class some encouragement, “I know that you come from all walks of life from the new high school graduate to the seasoned adult who has come to further your education. We at Peru State are so excited that you are here, and we want to ensure that each and every one of you walks this stage in four years.” 

Wineglass is standing behind the podium and the college seal.

Ivan Wineglass speaks. Dr. Dan Hanson, Dr. Gul Amad and Dr. Borchers (left to right) are members of the stage party.

Ivan Wineglass, Peru State alumni, collegiate All-American and member of the College’s 1993 Hall of Fame basketball team was the keynote speaker. Wineglass related many of his life experiences, some terribly difficult, and emphasized the importance of confidence and planning.

Wineglass also told the students, “If you have a cell phone, I want you to take it out. I’m probably the first person that’s going to ask you to take a selfie! Who do you see? Looking across the room, I know what I see, I see greatness.” 

The event concluded with Dr. Matt Hill, Director of Choral Activities, leading students, faculty and staff through the Peru State Color Song. Afterwards, the students enjoyed lunch with faculty and staff. 

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