Norfolk State University held a convocation ceremony during its Founders Day week to formally welcome the Class of 2030 and celebrate its institutional legacy. The University administration emphasized the resources available to help students succeed during their four-year journey. The ceremony's keynote speaker was NSU alumna Candi Mundon King, who serves as the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth and is a member of Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s cabinet.
Mundon King ’04, who earned a bachelor’s degree in political science, reflected on her Norfolk State journey, connected her Cabinet-level role to her experience in the political science department, and highlighted the historical legacy that the students are inheriting. “You are inheriting the legacy of Rosa Alexander, the pioneering spirit of St. Paul Epps, and the legislative achievements of Senator Yvonne Miller,” she said. Mundon King encouraged the students to embrace their potential as future leaders and “secret weapons” of society. She encouraged students to embrace technology and use it to their advantage rather than as a replacement for personal effort, advising them not to “follow the instructions on the box,” but to put their own spin on it.
The convocation celebrated the unique culture and history that defines being a Spartan. NSU Board of Visitors member James Jamison ’95 also offered students words of encouragement. He explained that getting into college and finishing college are two very different things. “During your time here, you will face obstacles,” Jamison said. “When that day comes, I want you to remember a number, and that number is 85.” He explained that the number 85 referred to the first students who enrolled in what has become Norfolk State at a time of economic strife, racism and a pervasive belief by many that African Americans could not succeed. “Because they persevered, the University persevered.” “Class of 2030, when problems weigh on you, remember 85. When your heart is broken, remember 85…The first class carried it forward for all of us. Now it’s your turn.”
As part of Convocation, Student Government Association President Demitrus Purnell led the freshman class in pledging to uphold the standards and mission of Norfolk State. After the pledge, students participated in a pinning ceremony. The pins symbolize their induction and allegiance to the University. Convocation concluded with the ringing of the Norfolk Mission College Bell. This historic bell dates back to 1884 and was dedicated to the University in 1974. To honor the institution’s history, the bell was rung seven times to recognize each of Norfolk State’s seven presidents. Students sang the alma mater as the ceremony closed.