Nichols College inspires new students at Convocation
August 29, 2024
Crowds, cheers, smiles, applause, the heart-tugging sound of bagpipes, sun-filtering copper beech trees, a running river of students, faculty and staff donning Nichols gear—all define the start of yesterday’s ceremony and a new chapter of life for the College’s newest community members.
Last Friday, Nichols College welcomed more than 400 incoming first-year and transfer students to campus. The first-year class of 2028 is the largest class since 2016, being six percent larger than last year, and it boasts the highest grade point average (GPA) ever.
The students hail from 26 states and 12 different countries. Students also enrolled in both the Honors Program and the 4+1 program at record rates. The 4+1 students will earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in five years—a commitment that reflects their ambition and will quickly pay dividends as they launch their professional careers.
Nichols College gathered to formally welcome the class of 2028 to the campus community on Wednesday, August 28 during the College’s annual first-year student Convocation ceremony. The tradition marks the official opening of the academic year and the beginning of a transformational educational journey.
New students were greeted with ovations given by College leadership, faculty, staff, alumni and upperclassmen flanking the sidewalk as all first-year students processed from the Copper Quad, up over Budleigh Hill and down to the Athletic Center, where the ceremony was held.
The ceremonial proceedings included a greeting by Student Government President Louis Denison ’25, an invocation by the Rev. Joseph Shea, messages of welcome and support by Provost Dan Borgia and Dean of Students Alex Cross, remarks by Nichols College President William C. Pieczynski and a keynote address by alumna Tara Ostromecky ’22, founder of Worcester-based marketing firm Makin’ It Marketing. First-year students also recited the Bison Creed, a pledge of community values.
“You are a historic class in many ways—one of the brightest, most talented and most diverse classes since this institution began educating students in 1815,” said President Pieczynski in his welcome remarks.
President Pieczynski outlined what it means to be a student at Nichols for the audience.
“We often talk about the way Nichols College transforms ambitious and open-minded students into confident business leaders who make a difference in their communities and in the lives of others,” said Pieczynski, noting that the words weren’t just platitudes.
“In small classrooms with passionate faculty who will know your names and your career goals, we will ask you to learn while doing, to stand up and defend your opinions and rethink assumptions. You will strengthen your resume in ways you cannot imagine as you prepare for careers of meaning and purpose.”
“I implore you to trust and listen to your professors, your advisors, your coaches, your RAs—this entire community is set up to assure your success,” he advised.
In her keynote address, Ostromecky offered her perspective on life as a Bison. During her time at Nichols, Ostromecky majored in marketing and entrepreneurship and founded Makin’ It Marketing while she was still a student. Her company, which this year earned a spot on the Worcester Business Journal’s Best of Business list in the Best Multimedia category, specializes in social media marketing, website design and maintenance, search engine optimization and more. The firm works with clients across the U.S., with a focus on service industry businesses. She is also a member of BOLD, or Bison of the Last Decade, a group of alums who help support current and new College initiatives.
She implored the first-year students to appreciate being in the moment—and the opportunities that lie ahead.
“What’s special about this place is the focus on business and professionalism that you will experience in your classes. The classes included in everyone’s core education here are truly life skills that you will be grateful for later on down the road,” she said, adding, “Here’s the thing, though—you will get out of this experience what you put into it.”
“As you start your journey here at Nichols, remember that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. Take your time, embrace the experiences that come your way, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You’re in a place that will challenge you, support you and help you grow—not just academically but personally and professionally.”
“Live in the moment, and don’t let fear hold you back from making the most of these next few years.”
For a Flickr album of photos from the ceremony, please visit here.
For some highlights from the ceremony, please visit here.
About Nichols College
Nichols College has earned business accreditation from the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), the longest serving global accrediting body for business schools and the largest business education network connecting learners, educators, and businesses worldwide. Founded in 1815, Nichols College transforms today’s students into tomorrow’s leaders through a dynamic, career-focused business and professional education. Nichols offers real-world learning focused on professional depth – combined with vibrant living, competitive athletics, and an unmatched alumni advantage – equipping students to exceed their own expectations. To learn more about Nichols College, visit www.nichols.edu.
Media Contact:
Denise Kelley
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508-213-2219