Thursday September 2, 2004, UB held its annual opening convocation, marking its 78th year as an academic institution. Convocation is really a time to welcome faculty, returning students and most importantly, new students. It addresses the new incoming class, introducing them to UB with the purpose of sharing encouraging words to kick off the new school year.President Neil Salonen stated that, “Our (UB) culture is a culture of achievement.” His hope is that we, the student body, commit to this culture, setting new standards of achievement in and outside of the classroom. UB also has a culture of respect, respect for ourselves and for one another, to act with dignity and integrity. What is imperative is UB’s culture of passion and commitment. President Salonen encourages the students to “strengthen this culture, make it our own and expand it.”
According to Barbara Maryak, Dean of Admissions, this year’s incoming class is reported to be an “outgoing group with strong work ethic. The group is focused and driven.” Professor Ausif Mahmood (Professor of Computer Science and Engineering), recipient of the 2004-2005 Distinguished Professor of the Year Award, gave his advice on surviving college. It was to “have a balance.” College is more than classes and studying. ON the other hand college is not a four year party. You should maintain a healthy mix of studies, extracurricular activities and personal leisure time. Professor Mahmood says, “Keep this up and college will be a breeze.”