Next Thursday, Nov. 12, most 11 a.m. classes will be cancelled. You could sleep in a little longer, get an early lunch, or scroll on Instagram reels. Or you could take advantage of the event that classes were cancelled for: Fall Convocation. 

The word “convocation” is derived from the Latin root “convocare,” meaning “to call together.” Yet Christ Chapel draws a small crowd for both the fall and spring convocations even though the main purpose of these events is to gather campus for remarks from College President Larry Arnn and a speech from an honored professor. 

Fall Convocation is important for students to attend because Arnn usually provides campus updates and future hopes, followed by the student-selected professor of the year who gives a speech. Brent Cline, associate professor of English, was voted professor of the year by the class of 2026 and will give the speech this year, giving younger students an opportunity to hear from a professor beloved by their peers. 

But convocations aren’t just a chance for us to hear inspirational speeches. They are placed near the end of each semester to serve as timely reminders for what we pursue as Hillsdale College students. In the drudge of exam studying, looming paper assignments, and the slog toward Thanksgiving break, it is easy to lose sight of what the purpose of college is. 

Convocation draws faculty and students together to recognize achievements of professors and students alike, and to reinstill the mission of the college into its students: that the college will “develop the minds and improve the hearts of its pupils.” 

So spend an hour next Thursday gathering with students and faculty at convocation. Refocus your attention on the partnership you are in with this college and remember why you are here.