Convocation Address Fall 2021

Good afternoon, and thank you, Provost Musselman.

As I look out on this audience, I would surmise that many of you grew up in Texas, while many others are from other states and countries. Wherever you call home, we are delighted to welcome you into the UT Dallas community.

There is nothing better than seeing our community on campus again, engaging with each other and making the most of being Comets Reunited.

After the interruptions of this past year,  the start of this semester is one of the most significant in our University’s history.

We are doing our best to chart a path forward — a “new normal,” if you will — after a year-and-a-half of upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

We are also doing things differently as a result of deeper focus on matters of justice and equity.

UT Dallas’ recently updated strategic plan reflects both of these driving forces.

So, what might “business as usual” entail at UT Dallas at the start of the 2022 academic year? In brief, it means a focus on community and that’s what I wish to talk about. Then I will also share a few thoughts on how to make the most of your time here.

First and foremost, Comets look out for each other. We are responsible, not only for ourselves, but also for each other, especially now, when we must work together to ensure a safe environment.

Comets respect diversity. You will be living, learning, and working with people from a wide range of backgrounds. Take joy in that, and be open to understanding the experiences of others, and treating your new classmates and colleagues with kindness and respect.

Comets create and innovate. We embrace new approaches to design, new methods to solving problems, new influences in music and art.

Comets are fierce competitors. Not just in the athletic arenas, but also in mock trial or business idea competitions. Even chess matches and e-sports tournaments.

And it goes without saying that Comets are bright. Our university has a strong foundation in the STEM disciplines, business, and, increasingly, the humanities and arts.

Strong academic programs are led by stellar faculty that will challenge you intellectually.

I chose to be a part of this community — to become a Comet — and I am so happy you made the same choice.

As I said, today is very distinctive. It is the first day of us getting back to our future. Back to your future. Back to being a community.

Comets, your future is bright, and our community is the better for you being a part of it.

Speaking of the future — as in tomorrow — you are going to face a few challenges that require some choices only you can make. So, as is my annual tradition, I have some suggestions:

Choose to explore campus — intentionally or unintentionally. With our move to virtual events over the past year, many of you haven’t had the opportunity to roam through our halls or walk down the Margaret McDermott Mall. Fortunately, we have an online map and an app with point-by-point directions to help you navigate.

But I also hope you will make some discoveries in the process of finding your way around — a great place to study, a new place to sip your coffee in the morning, a comfortable place to catch up with friends.

Choose to be open to new pursuits. Look for ways to connect, to be even more engaged with our community. I encourage you to take a different path by finding new activities or revisiting favorite extracurriculars. Sports, maybe? What about trying out for a theater production, or joining a club? The options are almost limitless. And if you can’t find exactly what you want, our many student service professionals can help guide you.

Choose to get a jump start on your future. As part of business as usual, you can investigate internships, consider study abroad programs, seek out research opportunities, or enter academic competitions, to name a few. They provide experience and skill development that will enhance your degree.

So, Comets, let’s enjoy being together in this moment. Today marks the beginning of your future at UT Dallas.

Whoosh!