How pleased we are that the university’s senior leaders approved our proposal to hold a hybrid convocation ceremony tomorrow for the dental hygiene and dental Classes of 2021. I cannot imagine a group of students that is more deserving of this opportunity. They have been through it all -- from day one of COVID-19’s impact on Ohio State and throughout their entire senior year.

Working together with our staff and faculty, these classes have helped implement new ways of doing just about everything we do in our pre-clinic labs, classrooms, and clinics. Because of their full engagement over the past 14 months, our college has been able to maintain its commitment to providing safe patient care and learning environments.

Although social distancing has only allowed our students to invite two guests each, all of the dental hygiene and dental students in the Classes of 2021 are able to be there for this convocation. Over the last few weeks I have spoken with dozens of them about this event. I have asked if they have invited any guests to attend, and without pause they tell me “who will be there for them.” Some say it will be their parents. Others tell me it will be their spouse and a friend. And a few have said it will be their sister and brother. Each goes on to say these are the people who have been a big part of the way they got through their dental hygiene or dental program, and how important it is that these family members and friends should be there to celebrate with them.

Regardless of the class, our graduating students are all so glad to have this chance to be together -- an experience they have not had in more than a year. This will be an opportunity for them to collectively celebrate and be recognized for all their hard work. Again, it is something that is so well deserved.

Many of our dental students have told me that the most meaningful part of our convocation is being hooded by their faculty. This longstanding tradition in the college allows the D4s to choose four faculty members who will have the honor of inducting them into the profession. It is truly a very special experience for the dental students and the distinguished faculty members.

My favorite part of every convocation celebration is hearing the student leaders address their classmates. I find these speeches to be revealing and heartfelt. And I learn so much about the character of each class -- what they value, what they enjoy, and what they will cherish and remember about their years in Postle Hall. Considering all that COVID-19 has brought their way in terms of challenges, I am even more excited to hear what they have to share with all of us this year.

Our convocation exercise will be one of the largest academic gatherings at The Ohio State University since the pandemic hit. This is a great tribute to the Classes of 2021, their family and friends, and our staff and faculty. We should feel so proud of all that has been accomplished and that has now been publicly recognized.