Freshmen and parents congregated in Steinhauser Gymnasium for the Class of 2017 Academic Convocation.

This inaugural celebration of academics for freshmen included remarks from Trinity President Dr. Rob Mullen, Principal Dan Zoeller and senior Daniel Ryan, a book signing coordinated by Vice President for Advancement Joe Porter, a singing of the Alma Mater, and a class photo.

Of the convocation, Mullen said, “The idea was to have an event where we officially bring frosh into the academic life of the school. This event seemed to add a flavor and touch we haven’t had before. They heard inspiring messages about classroom performance. They heard practical advice on how to be successful. They heard of the many rewards that await them when they excel in the classroom. We haven’t couched these things in this way previously.

“Every frosh (and his parent) signed an agreement to perform to the best of his ability. We will keep these signatures in a keepsake book and have it with them through their four years.”

Mullen shared comments from parents about the event:

“I just want to thank you for this evening….while high school has been an incredible transition for my son, it is also a transition for my husband and me.  After nine years of being walked through school, and fostering friendships with people who are now close as family, I was resigned to the fact that high school would not be like primary school.

“Tonight offered the opportunity to feel welcome and involved in (our son’s) continuing education, while meeting parents in the same boat as we are.  While I know this evening was about the boys, it went a long way to ease this parent’s ‘freshman jitters.’ Thank you again.”

and

“I put my head down during a speech and thought, ‘He’s going to be OK here.’”

and

“You all have exceeded all our expectations.”