SHERMAN, TEXAS—Austin College’s 167th academic year officially began with Opening Convocation on August 26, prior to the start of classes the following day.
Freshmen, transfer students, seniors, faculty, and the platform party entered Wynne Chapel according to plan, led by College marshal Dr. David Baker, professor of physics. Last to proceed, as always, was Dr. Marjorie Hass, president of the College.
After presentation of the Class of 2019 by Dr. Dawn Remmers, registrar, Dr. Sheila Amin Gutiérrez de Piñeres, vice president for Academic Affairs, named the students officially matriculated and ready to begin coursework.
Along with choral performances and special readings by students and staff, a new faculty “barbershop quartet” the ACademics, delivered a new take on the Austin College Alma Mater. The group was comprised of Dr. Mark Hébert, associate professor of philosophy; Daniel Dominick, associate professor of music; Dr. Wayne Crannell, associate professor of music; and Dr. Keith Kisselle, associate professor of biology and environmental science. The song was recently rearranged by Chris Hébert, brother of Mark Hébert.
Two freshmen—Catherine “Kitty” Christie ’19 of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, and Richa Patel ’19 of El Paso—were selected to hang the banner for Class of 2019. Richa was acknowledged as the first student to secure a spot as a freshman. Kitty was recognized for the most extensive legacy among her peers. Her legacy dates back to her grandparents, Dottye Richardson Maines and James “Bud” Maines (both Class of 1960), as well as her grandmother’s brother, Joe Mac Maines (Class of 1963). In addition, Kitty’s parents, Dede Maines Christie (Class of 1985, MA 1986) and Byron H. Christie (Class of 1988) attended Austin College.
President Hass then delivered the evening’s address, “Education as Intimate Immensity.” With the new year at hand, she said, “I look forward to the community we will make together: intimate in size, immense in spirit.”
Other participants in the service were Mary Whitworth ’16, who provided the invocation; College chaplain Dr. John Williams ’84; members of the A Cappella Choir and choral director Wayne Crannell; and Lisa Thomas, organist.
Following the Opening Convocation, members of the Class of 2016 gathered for a toast to their senior year led by President Hass and First Gentleman Dr. Larry Hass.
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, international study, pre-professional foundations, leadership development, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with more than 36 percent of students representing ethnic minorities. A residential student body of 1,250 students and a faculty of more than 100 allow a 12:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. The College is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA) and cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. Founded in 1849, the College is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.