Student Events
Honors Convocation
Honors Convocation is a formal program welcoming freshmen to the Judy Genshaft Honors College, the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ, and the start of their university careers.
A ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ Tradition
This festive ceremony takes place in the beginning of each fall semester and has been held every year since the founding of the college. Beyond welcoming students, each Honors Convocation features its own unique events and traditions.
When and Where
Tampa
- Date: Friday, Sept. 5, 2025
- Time: 2 - 3 p.m.
- Place: Judy Genshaft Honors College // Zimmerman Family Foundation Atrium
HON 1001
St. Petersburg
- Date: Friday, Aug. 29, 2025
- Time: 2:30 - 5 p.m.
- Keynote: Carrie Boucher, Nomad Art Bus
- Place: Meet at Snell House // Procession to USC Ballroom 1
Be a Part of Convocation
Tampa
Marking an inspiring start to the Honors journey, the Tampa convocation ceremony welcomes first-year students to our vibrant USF community. Students gather at the Judy Genshaft Honors College building for a ceremony led by the Honors dean and distinguished university leaders. During the event, they learn about the unique opportunities that await them, including participation in opportunities like undergraduate research.
St. Petersburg
On the St. Petersburg campus, the Honors Convocation tradition is to make beautiful music together. Honors students and faculty use fun, found instruments — tambourines, maracas, kazoos, and more — to announce their presence on campus. They march from the historic Snell House courtyard to the University Student Center for an interactive convocation celebration that fosters connection and community among the incoming class.