Coker University officially began the 2024 academic year with a convocation ceremony on the first day of school last Monday. The event, attended by students, faculty, and staff, marked the beginning of what promises to be an exciting year for the institution.

English professor Dr. Margaret Godbey delivered a keynote address to the freshmen class, comparing the beginning of college to a border crossing. Godbey received the South Carolina Independent College and University Excellence in Teaching Award and has taught at Coker since 2011.

“You are border crossing,” said Godbey, a recent recipient of the South Carolina Independent Colleges and University Excellence in Teaching Award. “Borders can be physical, emotional, figurative, literal. You are border crossing from the world of your home, your family, your high schools, the friends you have known for many years, and entering the community that is Coker University.”

Following Dr. Godbey’s speech, students were presented with the student covenant and their covenant pins, handed out by Cameron O’Neill, coordinator of first-year experience and student transitions. 

Coker’s student covenant is inspired by the six pillars of Davidson Hall, an iconic building in the center of campus.

• Conduct myself with integrity and be responsible for my actions and their consequences.
• Respect the rights, property, culture, and beliefs of others.
• Engage myself as an honorable scholar inside and outside of the classroom.
• Hold myself and others accountable for the sustainability of our environment.
• Offer my knowledge and creativity to serve my community.
• Contribute to the wider world through a continued pursuit of knowledge.

President Natalie Harder closed the ceremony by declaring the 2024-2025 school year officially open.