West Virginia University faculty, staff, upperclassmen and alumni, along with Morgantown community leaders, will gather to greet more than 3,500 members of the Class of 2005 during New Student Convocation Sunday, Aug. 19.

WVU ’s annual introduction to academic life and learning for freshmen and transfer students is set for 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the Creative Arts Center.

Students will hear from WVU President David C. Hardesty Jr. as well as other University administrators and student leaders, including Student Government Association president Chris Ferro and vice president Brian Anderson. A Morgantown community leader also will be on hand to welcome the citys newest residents.

Each speaker will be introduced by local WVU alums who will first greet the freshmen and offer them tips for success in college.

New students also will hear a performance of the University Choir and have a chance to meet SGA representatives, who will be serving as ushers for the event and presenting gifts at the ceremonys conclusion.

Buses to and from the residence halls and Creative Arts Center will run throughout the afternoon. Students who miss lunch at their residence halls by attending the 1 p.m. ceremony will be served lunch in the CAC lobby.

Other WVU back-to-school activities include the annual FallFest Concert on the Mountanlair Plaza Monday, Aug. 20.