Tiffin University officially welcomed the Class of 2029 during its annual Convocation ceremony, a tradition that marks the start of each new academic year and celebrates the arrival of TU’s newest Dragons. The ceremony began with a lively procession down Miami Street, led by TU’s marching band. Students marched into the Heminger Center, where faculty and staff awaited to officially welcome them to campus.
Vice Provost for Academics, Dr. Pete Piraino, opened the ceremony by introducing this year’s theme, Belong and Engage as a Dragon. “This is one of my favorite moments of the academic year—when we gather as a full community to mark the beginning of something new,” Piraino said. “Belonging means being seen, being heard and being part of something bigger than yourself. Engagement means showing up—academically, socially and personally—with purpose and passion.”
President Lillian Schumacher officially welcomed the new class and their families, recognizing the milestone ahead. “Welcome, Tiffin University Class of 2029 new students, and welcome to your family members here today supporting you!” Schumacher said. “By 2029, you will graduate from Tiffin University a very different individual than who you are today because you will have become a young professional competent both in your field of study, as well as broadened your ability to understand, respect and work with others who are different from you.”
“Every day at Tiffin University is an open invitation to explore, to push past your comfort zone and to discover strengths within yourself you never knew existed.”
Provost and Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Peter Holbrook, followed with a message about self-discovery and growth. “Every day at Tiffin University is an open invitation to explore, to push past your comfort zone and to discover strengths within yourself you never knew existed. Embrace your individuality, for it is the key not just to personal success, but to making a difference in the world around you,” Holbrook said. He encouraged students to learn from one another and engage fully. “Let curiosity and respect guide you as you learn from one another. At TU, you will find that everyone has a place at our table of learning.”
Student Government President, Demi Brown, a senior criminal justice student and member of the women’s soccer team, reminded first-year Dragons to take risks and get involved. “Your college experience is truly what you make it,” Brown said. “It won’t always be easy. Some days will be great, and others might feel overwhelming. It’s okay if your experience doesn’t look like anyone else’s. It’s supposed to be uniquely yours.” She closed with some practical advice: “And my most important piece of advice is unfortunately to GO TO CLASS.”
The ceremony also featured the traditional pinning ceremony, when new students received a TU pin bearing the University seal and motto: Without Risk, There Is No Gain. “This pin is more than a welcome gift, it’s a symbol,” Piraino said. “From this day forward, you are not just attending Tiffin University, you are part of the Dragon family.”
Dean of Student Development and Transformation, Dakel Patterson, then introduced the four pillars that will guide students throughout their TU experience: Connect, Grow, Lead and Adapt. “TU will give you every opportunity to thrive,” Patterson said. “But it’s up to you to take them.”
“Every Tiffin University student is supported by a team that believes in your success.”
Dr. Piraino closed the ceremony by emphasizing the support students will receive throughout their academic journey. “Every Tiffin University student is supported by a team that believes in your success. You’ll be guided by a professional academic advisor, someone dedicated to helping you stay on track with your courses and your goals. But just as important, you’ll have a faculty mentor—an experienced educator who will walk with you through the academic experience, challenge you to grow and help you find your purpose,” he said. The ceremony concluded with a benediction by Dr. John Millar, Emeritus Dean, and the singing of the Alma Mater and Fight Song. Students then met their faculty mentors for the first time, officially beginning their journey as Dragons.