Murfreesboro, TN - Middle Tennessee State University kicks off its 2025–26 academic year with Convocation this Saturday (8/23/2025) at 4:00PM in Murphy Center. The free event, open to the public and streamed online. It marks the official welcome for thousands of new students and their families.

Hosted by MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee, the ceremony will feature university leaders in full academic regalia, a performance by the Band of Blue, and the recitation of the True Blue Pledge led by Student Government President R.J. Ware. Faculty Senate President Michael Federici will greet students on behalf of the university’s educators.

This year’s keynote speaker is Bob Welch, co-author of Healing Wounds, the summer reading selection for incoming students. Welch’s book chronicles Diane Carlson Evans’ fight to honor women who served in Vietnam, and his appearance underscores MTSU’s commitment to meaningful dialogue and lifelong learning.

Vice Provost Laurie Witherow calls Convocation “our New Year’s Eve,” celebrating the start of a new journey for the Class of 2029. The weekend also includes a Friday night party near Keathley University Center, a Greek life meet-and-greet after Convocation, and a Sunday outdoor screening of Big Hero 6.

Classes officially begin Monday, August 25, as the campus springs to life for another True Blue semester.