North Columbus News

Ohio State University welcomed its incoming class of 2029 at the annual Convocation ceremony on Monday, held at the Schottenstein Center. The event marks the official start of the academic year and brings together all new students before classes begin.

President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. addressed the students, emphasizing the significance of their time at Ohio State. “This is that moment when you see your future, your life. It starts right here,” Carter said. “Everything you will do for the rest of your life will start and be shaped by what’s happening right here today. Class is starting tomorrow. There are friends that you will make that will change your life forever.”

University leaders participated in the ceremony to introduce students to Ohio State’s history and traditions. Head football coach Ryan Day encouraged student engagement at athletic events as he prepares to lead the defending national champions against Texas this weekend in a high-profile matchup between top-ranked teams. “We need you to be great fans. Because we need everybody to reach our goals,” Day said. “The students are a big part of it. … If you’re in the stadium, you gotta be loud, right when the foot hits the ball at kickoff.”

Senior Vice President for Student Life Melissa Shivers spoke about university traditions and introduced students to Ohio State’s school song, “Carmen, Ohio.” Shivers told students: “It reminds us of the joy and privilege of being here to learn and grow as a member of this community.”

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther also attended, arriving on a COTA bus to highlight aspects of city life for new residents.

The event included appearances from local sports mascots and giveaways such as gift cards and discounts for campus-area restaurants.

Alumni Association President and CEO Molly Ranz Calhoun presented each student with a Block O pin symbolizing their future connection with more than 630,000 living Buckeye alumni: “It may look simple, but it represents so much. It represents a connection to a family of more than 630,000 living Buckeye alumni,” she said. “It represents tradition and 155 years of excellence at The Ohio State University. And it represents pride.”