The Valparaiso University community welcomed new students and rang in the new academic year as part of the 83^rd annual Opening Convocation ceremony and celebration.

Intermittent rain led to a few logistical changes in the series of events marking the day, which was also the first day of classes, but students, faculty and staff managed those in stride on an often wind-swept afternoon.

President Mark A. Heckler, faculty and staff welcomed new undergraduate, graduate and law students. New students processed from the Harre Union to the Chapel of the Resurrection for the Opening Convocation event.

“Let’s take a moment to look around us,” Heckler told those assembled. “Class of 2015 … new and returning students, faculty and staff … let’s take a moment to remember and savor the joy and the pleasure of being gathered here today, because it is an hour of joining together in solidarity across our many differences, an hour reminding us of our virtues as a community of learning, an hour of refreshment and renewal that will become a touchstone for us throughout the coming year.”

Following Opening Convocation, two events brought crowds inside and outside the Harre Union. Outside, local restaurants set up under tents and offered free samples of their wares. Whether one wanted a cup of coffee, a slice of pizza, chips and salsa, ice cream, or a sandwich, it could be found at the Taste of Valpo.

Inside, the Activities Fair brought student organizations, as well as local businesses, to campus. Students got a chance to check out a diverse array of presentations from service organizations, recreational groups, and much more.

Events and activities for students continue this week with Meet the Greeks at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Neils Science Center; VISA and Global Leaders Barbecue at 5 p.m. Friday outside the Harre Union; the traditional Dunes Day trip, which departs at 11 a.m. Saturday from the Harre Union parking lot; and Valpo After Dark at 9 p.m.in the Harre Union Ballroom.