Hurried and eager voices filled the hallways of Utah Valley University’s Orem campus once again, heralding the start of the 2023 fall semester on August 23, 2023. The first day of school events culminated with Freshman Convocation, a celebration welcoming new Wolverines to UVU.

UVU President Astrid S. Tuminez was seen in UVU’s concourses, handing out treats and well wishes to everyone’s first day of the semester. Help stations were placed at every juncture to guide students to their classes.

Later that evening, nearly 6,000 people — UVU freshmen accompanied by parents and family members— packed the seats of the UCCU Center for Freshman Convocation as they were officially welcomed by members of UVUSA, student programs, and President Tuminez into the Wolverine pack.

Messages encouraging students to come to UVU as they are were broadcast throughout the program. The event concluded following remarks from President Tuminez.

“What you're doing here at UVU is worth it,” she said. “It's worth it because you're doing this not for your mom or dad or your sibling or your girlfriend or your spouse — You are doing this for you. You are worth every effort you put in every single day, and I hope you have fun while you're at it.”

Welcome back to campus, Wolverines!