UNC Asheville's Convocation is the ceremonial opening of the academic year and the official welcome of the University's newest students. Begun at UNC Asheville in 1985, Convocation is rooted in centuries-old academic tradition. The ceremony will include a formal address as well as the presentation of the Class of 2012 pins to each student and the presentation of the Class of 2012 Maple Tree, which will be planted on campus.

When: 7 p.m. Sunday, August 17
(Freshmen line up at 6:30 p.m. at the Justice Center)

Where: Under the tent on the main Quadrangle
(rain or shine)

Speaker: Dr. Kevin Moorhead, the 2008 recipient of the Award for Excellence in Teaching from the University of North Carolina’s Board of Governors, will give the keynote address entitled "What Are You Bringing to the Table?"

Moorhead, professor and chair of environmental studies, joined the UNC Asheville faculty in 1992. He teaches a host of environmental studies courses, including environmental restoration, soil science, wetland ecology and environmental planning. He also leads a senior course on environmental internships and has taught honors courses on technology and the environment and southern wetlands.

For more information, contact the Office of Academic Affairs at 828/251-6470.