Lincoln University of Missouri Kicks Off 2024-25 Academic Year with Opening Convocation

Lincoln University of Missouri celebrated its Opening Convocation on Thursday, September 5.

Lincoln University of Missouri celebrated the launch of the 2024-25 academic year with the annual fall convocation on Thursday, September 5 in Mitchell Auditorium, Richardson Fine Arts Center. Dr. Stevie Lawrence II, provost and vice president for academic affairs presided over the convocation.

Opening convocation is a formal ceremony that marks the beginning of each academic year at Lincoln. It serves as a pivotal gathering to set the tone for the year ahead. Lincoln’s convocation embodies the spirit of the university’s motto, “To Labor and Study,” emphasizing student dedication to scholarly pursuits and the quest for knowledge.

Lincoln University President Dr. John B. Moseley addresses students at the Opening Convocation. 

In his greeting to the audience, Lincoln University President Dr. John B. Moseley highlighted a significant increase in enrollment — a more than 8% rise in full-time undergraduate students and over 40% growth in full-time graduate students.

“We are building on our foundation of excellence by creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” Dr. Moseley said. “This year, let us dedicate ourselves to enhancing our support for one another and pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve together.”

The keynote speaker for this year’s convocation was Darren Smith, a Kansas City native and sports director at Fox Sports Radio. A Lincoln University alumnus, Smith served as freshman class president and student representative on the Board of Curators, advocating for key changes like increasing student activity funds. He also played a role in reinstating the university's football team and marching band and became the first student to earn a White House fellowship under President Bill Clinton. Smith now covers major Kansas City sports teams and has won numerous journalism awards, including a 2020 Kansas Association of Broadcasters award for his show on George Floyd’s death.

Darren Smith, LU alumnus, served as the Opening Convocation keynote speaker. 

In his address, Smith offered students two key pieces of advice: build relationships and show up. He highlighted the importance of seeking support and guidance from both faculty and peers, emphasizing that these connections can lead to lifelong friendships.

“Coming here was one of the best decisions of my life,” Smith said. “I promise you, if you fully embrace what Lincoln University has to offer, you’ll find moments of reflection and deep appreciation for this experience.”