By Sarah Kinney
Staff Writer

On Sept. 4, the Simmons community gathered to celebrate the All-College and Undergraduate Honors Convocations on the Academic Campus Quad.

Convocation is a calling together, explained Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Leanne Doherty at the Undergraduate Honors Convocation.

She shared her own experiences in college that lead her to become a professor.

“It was everything I wanted it to be because I made it that way,” Doherty said.

Doherty said the incoming Class of 2017 was asked to fill out leaves with responses to “I have a dream of what I will become….”

“I hope every experience you have at Simmons changes your dreams to reality,” Doherty said. “Four years from now, your dreams might be different… but they will always be your dreams.”

Provost Katie Conboy gave the keynote address at both Convocations.

This year’s theme was “Branching out while staying rooted,” a play on the Simmons College logo.

Conboy said the committee thought this was a good representation of how Simmons is committed to its traditions but that as a community it reaches out and grows.

As this is her first year at Simmons, Conboy empathized with the first-years as being “transplants” to Simmons.

“It’s like pulling up deep roots,” said Conboy.

Conboy also referenced the first-year reading novel “Home” by Toni Morrison and the search for community, family, and home in their new college environment.

“Don’t let the pull of home stop you from putting down new roots,” warned Conboy, asking the first-years to make the most of their Simmons experience.

“I intend to make it [Boston] a home and make memories,” said Conboy. “The choice makes all the difference.”

Dean of Student Life Sarah Neill also addressed the audience Honors Convocation leading in with an overview of historical instances where Simmons students have branched out to combat racism, homophobia, and other social justice issues.

“Branching out is risky,” said Neill.

Neill cited more present times that the Simmons community banded together and with the

thon bombing of last year where the community intrinsically came together. And then she looked to the future.

“The year ahead will be full of challenges and opportunities,” Neill said.

“I wonder what they’ll be saying about us in 50 years?” Neill mused. “Let’s give them something to talk about. It’s never too late for you, for all of us, to start branching out.”

At the All-College Convocation nearly 40 professors and staff were recognized for receiving grants. Three staff members were promoted to professors for Fall 2013 and five professors earned tenure.

At the Honors Convocation, Mary Jane Treacy recognized newly inducted members of the Academy, Honors Program students, and Dean’s List students.

Alumnae Association President Enna Jimenez ’91 presented the Alumnae Award for Academic Achievement to Vera Kirch via Skype, since she is currently studying abroad.