Dr. Bill Seymour stands with Cleveland State’s first ceremonial mace that will be used during CSCC’s Convocation.
Cleveland State Community College will be celebrating its Convocation and 50th Anniversary Kick-Off on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 12:30 p.m. in the L. Quentin Lane Gymnasium. The community is cordially invited to celebrate with Cleveland State as they start the 50th academic year and their yearlong series of events to commemorate their 50th Anniversary. There will be music, historical photographs, special resolution and other special moments during this event.
“This is a special year for Cleveland State to begin a new tradition of a Convocation, because it is our 50th anniversary it allows the perfect backdrop for this special ceremony,” stated Tracey Wright, Assistant to the President for Community Relations and Special Programs. “This year our convocation will allow members of the community and our students and employees to learn about the founding of this institution while also enjoying some special musical tributes and viewing some historical photographs.”
Dr. Bill Seymour, CSCC President, said, “Our strategic plan calls for the development of additional events that add to our sense of community and tradition. This new Opening Convocation fits this purpose perfectly. What better way to start a new school year than bringing the entire community together to greet our newest members and celebrate our mission and history.”
Ms. Wright continued, “When the convocation ends, a festive party celebrating the beginning of our yearlong celebration of proving 50 years of excellence will commence. There will be cake and ice cream and a selfie booth and students will have the opportunity to sign the ‘My Future’s So Bright’ Banner that is a part of a TBR initiative to help students commit to completing their degrees.”
Later that evening, the Mountain Faith Band will make a return visit to Cleveland State to provide a free concert in honor of the college’s 50th Anniversary. The Mountain Faith Band performed at the college’s Community First Awards and Gala in March. The Mountain Faith Band were selected as contestants and made it to the semi-final rounds on the 2015 season of the show America’s Got Talent. The messages conveyed in many of their sounds are about themes that have powered Cleveland State during its 50 years.
Ms. Wright said, “The college is very thankful for the generous support of the Cleveland State Foundation Board and the First Tennessee Foundation for funding Convocation and the Mountain Faith Band Free Community Concert.”
For a complete list of activities throughout the 50th anniversary year, visit the college’s 50th anniversary website at 50years.clevelandstatecc.edu.