Convocation
Convocation is an annual celebration at which students and faculty gather to celebrate the official opening of the scholastic year. Originally, “convocation” meant a gathering of the clergy or the divisions of a diocese; however, at the College of Charleston, the word and the event have evolved from their ecclesiastical roots to embrace the intellectual community as well.
The College’s convocation welcomes new students to the liberal arts and sciences community and encourages them to consider their own intellectual journey. This occasion also serves to familiarize incoming students with the College’s academic traditions as well as the institution’s history, symbols and mottos.
As part of convocation, new students pass through the arch at Porter's Lodge and convene in the Cistern Yard to join the College of Charleston community. The inscription on that historic arch reads (in Greek) "Know Thyself."
Information regarding convocation for the fall 2023 semester will be announced in the summer. Incoming students will receive information in their CofC email regarding the details.