A quality education, dedicated faculty and staff, a stunning campus in a vibrant city, and the chance to make a meaningful impact through service, internships, and study abroad opportunities— all are factors that draw students to Rhodes College, a place like no other.
Opening Convocation, which is the formal academic ceremony to welcome the new class and to begin the college’s 178th session, was held on Friday, Aug. 14. Classes begin on Wednesday, Aug. 19.
The Class of 2030 comprises 400 students, who come from 35 states and 14 different countries. Seventeen percent are first-generation students; and more than 100 students will represent Rhodes as varsity student-athletes.
At the Opening Convocation, Rhodes President Jennifer Collins shared information about the Class of 2030: “Many of you are passionate about service and social advocacy. You have tutored students with disabilities, taught English in Taiwan, volunteered in hospitals and animal shelters, and have founded clubs and organizations focused on global poverty, women’s empowerment, and education reform. Your class includes published medical researchers, two certified nursing assistants, and a junior firefighter and EMT. We have accomplished musicians and artists, including a Royal Conservatory of Music pianist; two principal orchestra violinists; a ballerina, multiple artists, actors, and singers; a theater director; a competitive Irish dancer; and an artistic swimmer.”
In addition, members of the new class are student body presidents and class officers; club founders and sports team captains; yearbook, newspaper, and literary magazine editors; student body chaplains, class valedictorians, and National Merit Scholars.
Rhodes offers more than 70 majors and minors, and nine new faculty bring talent in various specialties, from art to chemistry to psychology to urban studies.
As a new academic session begins, the campus has set the stage for student learning, growth, and success.