Convocation 2016: Story and Slideshows

This morning some 102 students,  hailing from 5 countries and 30 states,  matriculated as freshmen at Thomas Aquinas College — the Class of 2020.

The morning began with a Mass of the Holy Spirit in Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Chapel, with the Most Rev. Robert Barron, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles, serving as the principal celebrant and homilist. His Excellency, clad in red vestments, was joined at the altar by the College’s four chaplains: Rev. Paul Raftery, O.P.; Rev. Cornelius Buckley, S.J.; Rev. David Gonzalez, O. Praem.; and Rev. Robert Marczewski. Walking behind the clergy as they processed into the Chapel were members of the College’s Board of Governors and faculty, dressed in academic regalia.

Following the Mass, students, faculty, and staff convened in St. Joseph Commons for the Matriculation Ceremony. There, members of the Class of 2020 formally began their tenure as students when Director of Admissions Jon Daly called their names. Each approached the dais, greeting President Michael F. McLean and Bishop Barron, and then signed their names to the College’s registry.

In addition to the new students, the College welcomed its newest tutors: Blaise Blain, Vincent De Meo, Joseph Haggarty, and Drew Rosato. With Fr. Paul leading them, the four educators made the Profession of Faith and Oath of Fidelity, as do all new Catholic members of the College’s teaching faculty. Dr. McLean then formally welcomed the freshmen in his Matriculation Address.

Following Dr. McLean's introduction, Bishop Barron delivered his remarks to the members of the Class of 2020. Dr. McLean then proclaimed the start of the College’s 46th academic year. As in years past the students responded with loud applause. Members of the faculty and Board of Governors then processed out of the Commons as all sang “Immaculate Mary” in joyful anticipation of the new year, now at hand.