Today's Messages

Buffalo State University's annual First-Year Convocation will be held on Friday, August 28, at 11:00 a.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall as part of the students’ final day of Welcome Week. Visit First-Year Convocation 2026 for a complete listing of the daylong events and for more information.

First-Year Convocation is a Buffalo State tradition that welcomes our new students and provides them an opportunity to engage with administrators, faculty, alumni, and their peers before beginning their journey at the university.

As part of the ceremonial segment of the event, faculty, librarians, and professional staff are invited to march in the processional. Academic regalia is required. Marcher regalia rentals are available through the Barnes and Noble at Buffalo State Bookstore. Please contact Marybeth Keller, general merchandise manager, or call (716) 878-5509 by Friday, July 31, to place your rental order of standard shipping charges and guaranteed hood colors. A limited inventory of regalia is available for loan at no charge through the Academic Affairs Office. Contact Cathy Cook, administrative assistant 2, to make your regalia loan request by August 14.

Please click Marcher Registration by the August 12 deadline to secure your place to march in the First-Year Convocation 2026. Direct questions to Kimberly Jackson, deputy director of commencement operations and ceremonial events.

We look forward to your participation in First-Year Convocation!