Frequently Asked Questions about Convocation

What other speakers have been featured at BCC’s Convocation Day?

Past speakers at BCC’s Convocation Day include the anthropologist Margaret Mead, the environmental activist Anne LaBastille (known as The Woodswoman), and Eric Schlosser, author of Fast Food Nation. Like many colleges and universities, BCC tries to provide students with an exciting and memorable extracurricular academic experience to stimulate thought, discussion, and further study. Don't miss your chance to hear and interact with our internationally known speaker, Elizabeth Kolbert.

How are Convocation speakers selected, and where do I send my suggestions for future speakers?

In the past, Convocation speakers have been recommended by faculty committees, Phi Theta Kappa faculty advisers, students in Phi Theta Kappa, and other members of the campus community. The selection of the Convocation speaker depends on several factors, including the relevance of proposed speakers to the current campus theme. For example, our campus theme for 2006-2008, borrowed from Phi Theta Kappa, is Gold, Gods, and Glory: The Global Dynamics of Power.  Sustainability is part of that theme.  The academic credentials and serious accomplish-ments of candidates for Convocation speaker are important factors. Additional considerations in selecting a Convocation speaker include the candidate’s fee and availability. Some possible speakers may take a leave to write a book and decline all speaking engagements. Some speakers’ fees are a bit too high for the College to manage. Did you know that Karen Hughes, adviser to President Bush, commands a $50,000 fee per speech? (At least it was $50,000 the last time the College checked!)

If you would like to recommend a future Convocation speaker, send your suggestion by e-mail to byrnes_i@sunybroome.edu.  Include the name of the speaker, a brief (1 to 3 lines) biography of the speaker, and your reasons for thinking s/he should be invited to campus.  Also, please identify yourself as faculty, student, or staff.

Why should I attend Convocation Day activities?

Beyond their value to you as an extracurricular academic experience and an exciting day of interaction on campus, Convocation Day activities provide other benefits. Because your professors recognize the importance of Convocation, many of them will require you to attend Convocation Day activities or offer you extra credit options for doing so…or both!  Most four-year colleges and universities have convocations as well, so your participation here at BCC can prepare you to take full advantage of those future opportunities.  Finally, Convocation Day is a valuable pre-professional activity since many corporations hold similar events that they require all employees to attend.

Are there classes on Convocation Day?

No. There are no classes on Convocation Day during the day or at night. Don't worry missing your classmates or professors because they will be at Convocation too!

Where can I pick up a brochure describing all free film screenings, book discussions, and presentations being offered on campus in Spring 2008?

Go to T-210 for a brochure or visit http://www.sunybroome.edu/freeevents/