History of
Convocation
The University traditionally begins the academic year with a gathering called the Torch Lighting Convocation Ceremony. This official welcome event at UConn for first-year students marks the only time that the entire entering undergraduate class gathers as one.

We welcomed the Class of 2026 at the Torch Lighting Convocation Ceremony on Friday, August 26, 2022 at 7:45pm EDT in Gampel Pavilion.

A view of the Torch Lighting Convocation ceremony held on the Student Union Mall on Aug. 22, 2014.
(Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)