USC Upstate kicked off the academic year with its traditional New Student Convocation on August 17, in the G.B. Hodge Center. The ceremony, a symbolic rite of passage for incoming freshmen and transfer students, officially welcomed the new Spartans to USC Upstate and set the stage for their academic journey.
The ceremony began with a warm greeting from Khrystal Smith, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement & Retention Initiatives, followed by a Spanish version of the welcome from Alex Sanchez ’26. Scott Stephens, Director of Development, offered the invocation, while Keana Beason ’24 performed the National Anthem. Pamela Steinke, Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, extended official greetings to the students and their supportive families. Dr. Allison Ellis, Faculty Chair, took the opportunity to acknowledge faculty and staff members.
A memorable part of the event was the recitation of the USC Upstate Spartan Creed, a unifying moment that emphasized the students’ commitment to the university’s values. Zach McQueen, Vice President of the Student Government Association, facilitated this significant moment, while each student, presented with an official USC Upstate pin, helped to put each other’s pins onto their green accessory. These matching accessories, whether it a bow tie, scarf, or tie, symbolize their role within the university community.
Chancellor Dr. Bennie Harris introduced keynote speaker Krish Patel ’08, Founder of KVP, INC., who shared his experiences and offered motivational advice to the new students. Patel highlighted the transformative nature of college, stating, “College is a time to discover yourself, you will encounter new ideas and explore subjects you’ve never considered. This is an opportunity to find what truly inspires you.”
Dr. Harris concluded the ceremony with a metaphor, urging students to reflect on how their foundation at USC Upstate would contribute to their future success. “Our faculty and staff are here to support you while you grow into your academia,” Harris noted, underscoring the university’s commitment to student development. He added, “Having your foundation here at Upstate will allow you to take your professional dreams to greater heights.”
Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed a celebratory brunch. This provided an opportunity for students and their families to connect with each other and with the broader USC Upstate community, signaling the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the university’s newest members.
The Spartan Creed:
I will practice personal and academic integrity;
I will respect the dignity of all persons;
I will respect the rights and property of others;
I will discourage bigotry, while stiving to learn;
I will demonstrate concern for others, their feelings, and their need to conditions which support their work and development.