New Student Convocation

This is where your collegiate journey begins!

New Student Convocation is the official academic welcome for first-year students and marks your entrance into the ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½. As a new ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½ Lafayette student, you will have the chance to learn about opportunities awaiting you in your college. At Convocation, students, administrators, and faculty will share their own experiences and advice — about making the most of your time at ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½ Lafayette, finding your people, and making your mark.

2026 New Student Convocation

Welcome, Class of 2030! All incoming first-year ÐÇ¿ÕÎÞÏÞ´«Ã½ Lafayette students are required to attend New Student Convocation. Convocation will be on Sunday, August 23, 2026 at 2:00pm in the Cajundome. Doors will open at 1:30pm. Please bring your CAJUN CARD; students will swipe their Cajun Card as they enter the Cajundome. 

Parking: Students are encouraged to park at Cajun Field and cross Cajundome Blvd. via the pedestrian tunnel. Shuttle transportation from campus will also be available for students who do not have access to transportation. The shuttle will pick up and drop off in front of the Student Union on McKinley Street. 

Attire: Students are to wear their red t-shirt received at Orientation.

Clear Bag Policy: There is a clear bag policy in place at the Cajundome, please plan accordingly.

Class Photo: After the Convocation Ceremony, students will participate in the Class of 2030 class photo. 

What if I have other questions?

Contact the Office of First-Year Experience at ofye@louisiana.edu or 337-482-6599.

Information for Faculty & Staff

Faculty and staff are encouraged to attend New Student Convocation. See all Convocation info for faculty and staff.

Meet the 2026 Convocation Speakers

Ashley Allen Headshot

Ashley Allen (Student Speaker)

Major: Political Science with a concentration in Pre-Law, minor in Criminal Justice

Hometown: Gramercy, LA

High School Attended: Lutcher High School

Classification: Senior

Career Aspirations: District Attorney and a member of U.S. Congress

Fun Fact: My first name is my twin sister's middle name.