New Student Convocation
Join us for Convocation
You’re invited to VCU’s New Student Convocation — a high-energy celebration and your official academic welcome to Virginia Commonwealth University. This signature event takes place the day before classes begin and brings all new students together to be welcomed by VCU leadership, celebrate the start of your journey, and experience your next VCU tradition: the Ram Spirit Walk, which kicks off right after the ceremony and leads you straight into the FloydFest: Monroe Park Block Party. You won’t want to miss it!
RSVP in RamsConnect to receive any updates before the event!
New Student Convocation details:
- Date: Monday, Aug. 17
- Time: The fun will begin at 3 p.m. Plan to arrive early!
- Location: The Siegel Center, 1200 W. Broad Street
- Note: It’s a black-out theme, so plan to wear the shirt you received at VCU Orientation this summer or any black VCU shirt!*
*If you missed getting your black T-shirt at Orientation, or attended a virtual session, you can pick up your shirt on Monday, Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Student Commons. Be sure to have your VCUCard!
Living on-campus? Meet your RA before the event and walk over with your floor to the event!
Living off-campus? Join us at the Transfer and Commuter Student Meet-Up before the event from 2 to 2:30 p.m. in the STEM Building (817 W. Franklin St.) to walk over together. RSVP in RamsConnect - strongly encouraged!
New for 2026! We are pleased to welcome Dr. Faith Wilkerson as this year's New Student Convocation host.
Dr. Faith A. Wilkerson is an educator, entrepreneur, and community engagement strategist with more than 20 years of experience in higher education, leadership development, and community engagement. She has served as an adjunct instructor at both the University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University and previously held several leadership roles at VCU focused on student success, community engagement, and inclusive excellence.
Dr. Wilkerson is also the founder and owner of UnlockingRVA, an award-winning event production company dedicated to creating innovative experiences that connect people and communities throughout the Richmond region. A proud three-time graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Wilkerson holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, a Master of Education in Adult Education and Human Resource Development, and a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications. She is a former President of the VCU Alumni Council and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Studio Two Three. Her work as an educator and community leader has earned numerous honors, including Style Weekly’s Top 40 Under 40, the Richmond Times-Dispatch Women Who Drive Richmond Award, and the VCU Presidential Award for Community Multicultural Enrichment.
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Wilkerson back to campus for this special event!
For any additional questions, please email the Orientation and Transition Programs team at newrams@vcu.edu.