Convocation

Today, Howard University held its 144th annual Opening Convocation. I wasn't exactly sure as to what Convocation was when I entered Crampton Auditorium, but by the end of the ceremony, I became both enlightened and motivated.

The Orator for the ceremony was the President and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, Dr. Michael L. Lomax. Dr. Lomax earned his Bachelor's Degree from Morehouse College and currently, his Doctorate from our very own Howard University. In his speech, Dr. Lomax talked about progress in students and Historically Black Colleges and Universities; competition in the workforce; and the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (S.T.E.M.)

He brought up a valid point that as the freshman class of 2015, we were 1,500 applicants out of 10,000 to be accepted and enrolled at Howard. This meant, according to Dr. Lomax, that we are the "scholars that will change the world". With that being said, he encouraged us to promote change within our communities. Dr. Lomax also discussed the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (S.T.E.M.). Since there is more of a career demand in these fields, more students should be actively engaged and consider careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. He pointed out that the unemployment rate for African Americans without a Bachelor's Degree is 16%. Dr. Lomax also informed us that we were even in competition with other countries around the world as well as within our own nation. Therefore, there is more pressure for African American students to gain the highest amount of education possible in order to compete in the corporate world.

Dr. Lax's words were both informative and inspiring. I was very pleased to have attended the convocation ceremony.