New University of Texas at Dallas students received a formal welcome to campus Aug. 20 at University Convocation, where they heard about student life from faculty and other University leaders.
“The students are why we’re here,” said Dr. Inga H. Musselman, vice president for academic affairs, provost and the Cecil H. Green Distinguished Chair of Academic Leadership. She encouraged students to be inquisitive, persistent and positive as they begin the new academic year.
Dr. Shalini Prasad, a Cecil H. and Ida Green Professor in Systems Biology Science and department head of bioengineering in the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, delivered the keynote address, urging students to consider working with researchers on campus.
“There are abundant research opportunities at UT Dallas,” she said. “Take a chance; become an explorer.”
UTD President Richard C. Benson, the Eugene McDermott Distinguished University Chair of Leadership, said University leaders strive to give students great learning opportunities beyond the classrooms and research labs.
“We want you to have a variety of experiences through clubs, study abroad, internships, volunteer service and more,” he said. “Your presence enriches our community, and your university has great things in store for you during your time here.”
Other faculty presenters at the ceremony were Dr. Ravi Prakash, speaker of the faculty for the Academic
Senate and a professor of computer science; Dr. Gene Fitch Jr., vice president for student affairs; Dr.
Jessica Murphy, dean of undergraduate education and the Mary McDermott Cook Chair for
Undergraduate Education; and Dr. Juan González, dean of graduate education, vice provost for global
engagement and the Francis S. Johnson Chair for Graduate Education. The ceremony also included
student speakers — cognitive science senior Srivani Edupuganti, president of Student Government; and
business analytics graduate student Megha Hooli, president of the Graduate Student Assembly.
The convocation was followed by the Welcome Back Bash, an event sponsored by the Division of Student
Affairs that kicked off the annual Weeks of Welcome.