Grasso Welcomes Michigan 2026 Cohort Chosen From 115,000 Applicants

University of Michigan

University leaders instructed incoming students that intellectual resilience and societal influence require actively seeking out ideological opponents and sustaining dialogue past the point of comfort.

AI-assisted summary of 2026 New Student Convocation (with audio description) — original source. Check the original for full context.

Source published: 2026-09-14

Key ideas

Vice Provost Adele Brumfield announced that the incoming fall 2026 class was selected from a record applicant pool of more than 115,000 prospective students. (13:15)
Provost Laurie McCauley delivered a formal land acknowledgment marking the 1817 Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids, in which the Anishinaabe made the largest single land transfer to the university for education. (4:53)
President Domenico Grasso cited institutional accolades, including 110 university programs ranked in the national top 10 and a No. 9 worldwide ranking by Time magazine. (33:36)
Speakers urged incoming Wolverines toward civic engagement, directing eligible voters to register for the upcoming November 3 election via govote.umich.edu. (39:24)

Detailed notes

## Background Published on YouTube by the University of Michigan on September 14, 2026, this video documents the 2026 New Student Convocation held at the Crisler Center on August 30, 2026. According to the page description, this version features audio description for the ceremony, with a link provided to the standard broadcast.

## TL;DR The convocation officially inducts the incoming fall 2026 class into the University of Michigan community, opening with an ancestral land acknowledgment and remarks on academic rigor. University leaders—including Provost Laurie McCauley, Vice Provost Adele Brumfield, Vice President Martino Harmon, and President Domenico Grasso—alongside Central Student Government President Summit Louth, encourage students to embrace playful curiosity, bridge disagreements, and wield their influence responsibly. The program features musical performances of the national anthem by Lilly Hunwick and a pop arrangement by a cappella ensemble Amazin' Blue. It concludes with an invitation to civic engagement and a traditional send-off featuring the alma mater and 'The Victors.'

## Atmosphere & style The ceremony carries an uplifting, celebratory, and grand collegiate energy that blends academic solemnity with stadium-scale school spirit. University leaders and student speakers balance dignified charges of civic responsibility with humorous, relatable commentary that directly addresses freshman anxiety. Driven by soaring musical interludes and enthusiastic arena cheers, the event creates an inspiring emotional arc designed to make newcomers feel welcomed, capable, and proud to be Wolverines.

## Bulletin - [13:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=795s) Vice Provost Adele Brumfield announced that the incoming fall 2026 class was selected from a record applicant pool of more than 115,000 prospective students. - [04:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=293s) Provost Laurie McCauley delivered a formal land acknowledgment marking the 1817 Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids, in which the Anishinaabe made the largest single land transfer to the university for education. - [33:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2016s) President Domenico Grasso cited institutional accolades, including 110 university programs ranked in the national top 10 and a No. 9 worldwide ranking by Time magazine. - [39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2364s) Speakers urged incoming Wolverines toward civic engagement, directing eligible voters to register for the upcoming November 3 election via govote.umich.edu.

## Key takeaways - [02:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=160s) Faculty Senate Chair Kentaro Toyama and School of Music, Theatre & Dance senior Lilly Hunwick opened Convocation with 'The Star-Spangled Banner' at Crisler Center. - [04:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=293s) Provost Laurie McCauley reaffirmed the university's indigenous roots, recognizing the historical land transfer by the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi nations. - [07:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=454s) McCauley advised incoming students to balance rigorous academic research with curiosity, play, and exploration across diverse campus assets. - [07:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=454s) McCauley challenged students to engage across ideological divides and remain in constructive dialogue with differing perspectives past the point of comfort. - [13:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=795s) Vice Provost Adele Brumfield welcomed the class from an applicant pool exceeding 115,000, underscoring that every matriculating student belongs at Michigan. - [13:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=795s) Graduating Wolverines join a global, living network of more than 710,000 alumni worldwide. - [20:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1242s) Vice President for Student Life Martino Harmon framed knowledge as a major superpower that carries significant personal and community responsibility. - [23:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1428s) Central Student Government President Summit Louth highlighted historic Michigan alumni, spanning Nobel laureates, Pulitzer winners, heads of state, and cultural figures. - [23:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1428s) Louth encouraged students to lead with respect and adopt daily enthusiasm inspired by Michigan alumni traditions. - [28:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1714s) Oldest all-gender a cappella ensemble Amazin' Blue performed an arrangement of American Authors' 'Best Day of My Life' alongside a campus life video montage. - [33:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2016s) President Domenico Grasso emphasized Michigan's standing as a world-class institution, pointing to 110 top-10 academic programs. - [35:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2154s) Grasso redefined the concept of digital influencers, stating that Michigan faculty, peers, and campus cultural assets turn students into the world's ultimate influencers. - [35:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2154s) The university houses unique scholarly and artistic treasures, including the largest ancient papyri collection in the Western Hemisphere and Maya Lin's Wave Field. - [39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2364s) Students were urged to wield their influence with empathy, kindness, and active civic participation by registering to vote at govote.umich.edu. - [40:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2452s) The convocation concluded with performances of the alma mater 'The Yellow and Blue' and fight song 'The Victors' before students departed for a welcome tailgate.

## Detailed walkthrough ### [02:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=160s) Opening and National Anthem

Kentaro Toyama, chair of the University of Michigan Faculty Senate, opens the 2026 New Student Convocation inside the Crisler Center by offering a warm welcome on behalf of the faculty. He invites the audience to rise for the national anthem, performed by Lilly Hunwick, a senior in the School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Hunwick delivers a soaring rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner," drawing loud cheers and sustained applause from the incoming class and assembled guests.

[04:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=293s) Welcome, Acknowledgments, and Land Transfer Recognition

Laurie McCauley, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs—as well as professor of periodontics in the School of Dentistry and pathology in the Medical School—takes the podium to officially welcome the audience to "the world's defining University dedicated to the public good." She leads another round of applause for Lilly Hunwick and the School of Music, Theatre & Dance musicians, and introduces Kentaro Toyama as the W.K. Kellogg Professor of Community Information, professor of information, and Faculty Senate chair. McCauley recognizes the university's executive officers and deans seated on the platform, noting that their names appear on the arena's video screens, while expressing gratitude to the families, teachers, advisors, and mentors who supported the students on their path to Ann Arbor.

Before turning to academic life, Provost McCauley leads a formal land acknowledgment recognizing the indigenous roots of the university. She explains that the University of Michigan sits on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people. In 1817, the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi nations made the largest single land transfer to the university through the Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids, with the explicit ceremonial intention that their children could be educated. McCauley emphasizes that reading these words formally renews and reaffirms the nations' contemporary and ancestral ties to the land and their foundational contributions to the institution.

[07:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=454s) Provost McCauley's Charge: Curiosity, Play, and Engaging Disagreement

Congratulating the students on earning their place among the next generation of Wolverines, Provost McCauley remarks that choosing to attend convocation proves they are serious, engaged, and ready to immerse themselves in university life: "To use a parlance of our times, keep that same energy. It will serve you well." Demystifying her administrative role, she humorously points out that most students probably do not know what a provost is, explaining that she manages the academic side—schools, colleges, faculty, and degree programs—and is essentially "someone who spends a great deal of time thinking about your classes before you ever have to."

Taking advantage of having the audience captive, McCauley imparts two core pieces of advice for navigating Michigan's massive scale and intellectual breadth:

```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: Provost McCauley's Core Advice for New Students accDescr: Two-part framework outlining exploration with curiosity and engaging with diverse perspectives.

subgraph Part1["Part 1: Embrace Curiosity and Play"] A["Colossal Campus Environment"] --> B["Use intellect when required"] B --> C["Explore museums, climbing, and adaptive sports"] end

subgraph Part2["Part 2: Engage Across Difference"] D["Intellectually Diverse Peer Group"] --> E["Acknowledge divergent moral and political views"] E --> F["Stay in dialogue past the point of comfort"] end

Part1 --> G["Transformative University Experience"] Part2 --> G ```

1. **Balance rigorous intellect with curiosity and play:** Michigan is an expansive, intimidating enterprise encompassing hospital systems, over 180 centers and institutes, quantum mechanics research, acoustic histotripsy that destroys tumors with sound waves, and student-run solar-powered race cars. While rigorous thinking will be demanded constantly, students must step back, relax into the community, and explore playfully. She suggests walking into the university art museum to ask about enigmatic campus sculptures, taking up rock climbing to conquer a fear of heights, playing integrated wheelchair basketball alongside students of all abilities, and attending free campus concerts through the University Musical Society (UMS) Bert's Ticket Program. 2. **Lean into disagreement and differing perspectives:** Reminding students that not a single person among the thousands in the arena shares their exact worldview, McCauley emphasizes that peers will disagree on moral, educational, cultural, and political matters. Recalling their orientation exercise in "Talking Maize and Blue," she challenges students to seek out those who think differently and deliberately "stay in dialogue with them past the point of comfort." Doing so builds essential empathy and provides the intellectual resilience necessary for lifelong success beyond graduation. Following her remarks, McCauley introduces Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Adele Brumfield.

[13:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=795s) Adele Brumfield on Admissions, Community, and Belonging

Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Adele Brumfield takes the stage with an energetic "Hello, Wolverines!" and commends the admissions, financial aid, registrar, Office of New Student Programs, and academic communications units for shepherding the class to campus. Announcing that over 115,000 prospective students applied for the fall 2026 class, Brumfield highlights that the selected students stood out not merely for academic records, but for intellectual curiosity, resilience, boldness, and demonstrated leadership.

Reflecting on her own background as a first-generation college student who once doubted whether she truly belonged on a university campus, Brumfield delivers an emphatic message of affirmation: "You belong. Each of you belongs here. Now is your time." She encourages students to lean on campus resources and shed their hesitation to seek help, whether from professors, academic advisors, coaches, or peers. Looking toward the horizon, Brumfield notes that in four years, the students will cross the commencement stage and join a living network of more than 710,000 Michigan alumni worldwide. She concludes with a rallying call to lead with humility, integrity, and kindness, ending on a spirited "Go Blue!" before introducing Vice President for Student Life Martino Harmon.

- **Fall 2026 applicant pool:** More than 115,000 applicants. - **Geographic composition:** Recruits spanning Michigan, across the United States, U.S. territories, and foreign nations. - **Global alumni network:** Over 710,000 living alumni awaiting the graduating cohort.

[20:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1217s) Vice President Martino Harmon Welcomes the Class

Martino Harmon, vice president for student life, steps forward to welcome the matriculating class inside the historic Crisler Center, underscoring that this gathering marks the opening chapter of an exhilarating personal, social, and academic voyage across campus.

[20:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1242s) Cultivating Knowledge and Community: Martino Harmon’s Closing Charge

Vice President for Student Life Martino Harmon urges the incoming class to take ownership of their collegiate journey and construct a Michigan experience that is distinctly their own. Reminding students that each day offers a clean slate to chase ambitious dreams within an expansive, opportunity-rich community, he emphasizes that their understanding of themselves, their peers, and the world will expand exponentially. This acquired knowledge, he asserts, carries genuine power—and quoting the classic adage, "with great power comes great responsibility," he defines knowledge as one of humanity’s greatest superpowers.

Because the University brings together individuals from every imaginable background, perspective, and aspiration, Harmon challenges the students to actively engage with peers whose lived experiences differ from their own. To truly make the most of Michigan, students must stay curious, listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and mindfully step outside their comfort zones. He looks ahead to the moment when these same students will fill Michigan Stadium—the "Big House next door"—for graduation, transitioning into an alumni network dedicated to worldwide impact. Before relinquishing the lectern, Harmon extends deep gratitude to the campus partners who orchestrated orientation and move-in, including Housing ResStaff, the Office of New Student Programs, the Center for Campus Involvement, Michigan Dining, and hundreds of campus volunteers, prompting an enthusiastic round of applause from the arena.

[23:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1428s) Welcoming the Leaders and Best: Central Student Government Address

Martino Harmon introduces the Central Student Government (CSG) President, Summit Louth, who takes the stage to address his fellow Wolverines. Acknowledging the anxiety humming through the room—fears about making friends or feeling crushed under the weight of high personal ambitions—Louth advises the newcomers to tune out the external noise and absorb the magnitude of where they are standing. While lifelong friendships and stellar professional trajectories will inevitably follow, he insists that today is about recognizing how far each student has traveled just to arrive at the "greatest University on the face of the Earth."

Louth underscores the storied legacy they now share, citing prominent alumni across history, from heads of state to cultural icons: - Hundreds of members of the U.S. Congress and three Supreme Court justices - Prime ministers and presidents representing Italy, Jordan, Pakistan, Madagascar, Costa Rica, and the United States - Medical pioneers who helped invent the polio and influenza vaccines - 35 Pulitzer Prize winners and 10 Nobel laureates - Cultural "GOATs" including Tom Brady, Michael Phelps, Madonna, and the late, legendary James Earl Jones

He encourages students to take time during their opening week to walk through the Law Quad, relax on the grass at the Diag, and jokingly "watch the squirrels fulfill their secret plan to conquer Ann Arbor." Beyond professional milestones, Louth reminds them that their greatest societal contributions will stem from the lives they brighten and how they uphold the core Michigan principle: "to receive respect, you need to give it." Closing his speech, Louth shares a personal tradition: every morning before school, he and his father would prepare for the day by reciting a phrase inspired by a Michigan alum: "Let's hit today with the kind of enthusiasm unknown to humankind." He charges the class to carry that exact enthusiasm into their new lives as the "leaders and best."

[28:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1714s) Musical Interlude: Amazin’ Blue Performs “Best Day of My Life”

Summit Louth introduces Amazin' Blue, the University of Michigan’s oldest all-gender a cappella ensemble. Taking center stage, the group launches into a dynamic vocal arrangement of American Authors' "Best Day of My Life." The vocalists establish a rhythmic, layered foundation before delivering the uplifting verses about dancing through the night, howling at the moon, and embracing epiphanies without limits:

> "I had a dream so big and loud > I jumped so high, I touched the sky... > I'm never gonna look back, whoa > I'm never going to give it up, no > Just don't wake me now > This is gonna be the best day of my life!"

Midway through the performance, a member calls out to the crowd, "Welcome to the University of Michigan! We're Amazin' Blue, and get ready for the best four years of your life!" before counting off the final, high-energy chorus. The song culminates in a flourish of harmonies and vocal percussion that earns loud cheers and applause across Crisler Center, leading directly into a visual video montage prepared by the Office of New Student Programs showcasing campus life, traditions, and Wolverine spirit.

[33:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2016s) Introduction of the President and Michigan’s Global Impact

Returning to the podium, Vice President Martino Harmon applauds Amazin' Blue and commends the Office of New Student Programs for assembling the energetic campus montage. Harmon then introduces the 16th President of the University of Michigan, Domenico Grasso, who takes the stage amid cheers.

President Grasso greets the crowd by reinforcing that calling Michigan the greatest university in the world is by no means an exaggeration. He points out that at the upcoming opening football game on September 5, the booming recorded voice of legendary Michigan alumnus James Earl Jones will echo across Michigan Stadium declaring the exact same sentiment to 115,000 roaring fans. Backing up the institutional pride with data and national standing, Grasso highlights: - 110 university programs ranked in the national top 10 - Recognition by *Time* magazine ranking Michigan the number 9 university in the world - The only five American institutions ranked ahead of Michigan in that survey: Harvard, Yale, Stanford, MIT, and the University of Chicago—quipping that the rankers "got some of those wrong" - Hosting the convocation inside Crisler Center, home to elite athletics, championship contenders, and passionate Wolverine pride

[35:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2154s) The Ultimate Influencers: Faculty, Peers, and Campus Culture

Grasso connects with the modern student experience by observing that almost every freshman in attendance has likely looked at their phone within the last 45 minutes—checking sports scores, purchasing last-minute essentials for residence hall dorms, or scrolling through content from popular digital influencers like IShowSpeed, Alix Earle, or engineer Mark Rober. However, he announces an update for the incoming class: by enrolling at Michigan, they have officially joined the ranks of the world's ultimate influencers.

```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: The Influences Shaping the Michigan Experience accDescr: Diagram illustrating how world-class faculty, diverse peers, and campus cultural assets combine to transform new students.

subgraph Inputs["The Michigan Environment"] F["World-Class Faculty<br/>(Office Hours & Hallway Talks)"] P["Diverse Peers<br/>(Roommates, Orgs, Classmates)"] C["Campus Culture & Assets<br/>(Papyri Collection, Live Arts, Diag)"] end

subgraph Transformation["Student Development"] T["Challenged Thinking & Expanded Perspectives"] end

subgraph Output["The Result"] U["The World's Ultimate Influencers"] end

F --> T P --> T C --> T T --> U ```

Grasso explains that this transformative influence operates on three distinct levels across the Ann Arbor campus: - **World-Class Faculty:** Spanning scientists, engineers, musicians, poets, nurses, teachers, archaeologists, and social workers, Michigan professors are eager to teach, converse in hallways, and debate during office hours, which Grasso strongly urges students to attend. - **The Student Body:** Roommates, peers in lecture halls, and collaborators in student organizations will shape each newcomer's outlook. Grasso reassures students who feel nervous or isolated that self-doubt is completely normal, emphasizing that every student was intentionally admitted because the university believes in their potential to thrive alongside classmates from across the country and the globe. - **Campus Resources and Culture:** Students will be challenged and inspired by artistic performances, museum exhibits, Diag rallies, visiting dignitaries, and unparalleled library collections. In particular, Grasso highlights that Michigan holds the largest collection of ancient papyri in the Western Hemisphere—including fragments of Homer's *Odyssey* that are thousands of years old, housed right on campus.

[39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2364s) Embracing Campus Spaces, Student Influence, and Civic Engagement

The speaker urges the incoming class to open themselves up to the transformative power of the physical environment in Ann Arbor, telling students to "always let the Michigan campus itself influence you." They encourage students to actively make time in their schedules to wander and explore the Nichols Arboretum (the Arb) as the leaves turn in the fall, stroll the walking paths and ponds on North Campus, and take in Maya Lin's Wave Field. The speaker highlights that Maya Lin, renowned for designing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., crafted this unique earthwork specifically for Ann Arbor. Students are likewise encouraged to hang out within the collegiate gothic arches of the Law Quad and "imagine yourself at Hogwarts," give the Regent's Plaza Cube a spin, and safely leap over the brass Block M on the Diag, allowing the natural and architectural beauty of the university to recharge them both physically and mentally.

Turning the concept around, the speaker reminds the audience that influence flows both ways: "know that you too are influencers." Entering students possess the ideas, talent, and creative energy required to reshape their peers, professors, and the institution as a whole. However, the speaker stresses that this influence must always be wielded with empathy, care, and kindness, celebrating the deep sense of mutual support and community that defines Michigan. Beyond the borders of campus, students are called upon to exert their influence through civic participation in the upcoming election on November 3. Any eligible American citizen who has not yet registered is urged to do so—whether locally in Ann Arbor or back in their hometown—by visiting `govote.umich.edu`.

[40:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2452s) Closing Instructions and Traditional Musical Send-Off

Bringing the formal ceremony to a close, the speaker offers "two important notes to share," jokingly branding them the first of many sets of lecture notes the students will record during their academic careers. First, students are instructed to remain seated until the faculty, leadership, and platform party finish leading the official recessional march out of Crisler Center. Second, labeled as "the really important part," everyone is invited to cross the street immediately afterward to join their new classmates for a celebratory welcome tailgate hosted at the University of Michigan Golf Course.

Before anyone departs, the speaker invites the fanfare band to launch into two foundational anthems of Michigan tradition. The first piece introduced is the alma mater, "The Yellow and Blue." Acknowledging that this ceremony may represent the students' very first time hearing the song, the speaker notes it certainly will not be their last, as it is traditionally sung at the close of every football game and will ultimately bookend their college journey at commencement. Following the alma mater, the band transitions into what the speaker heralds as "the greatest college fight song ever written, 'The Victors.'" Noting that a Michigan student originally penned the fight song more than 125 years ago, the speaker leaves the class with an inspiring final thought: nobody yet knows what world-changing ideas or creative works someone sitting in the arena today will author. With an enthusiastic "welcome to Michigan and forever go Blue," the arena erupts into thunderous applause, drumrolls, and spirited performances of both anthems as the class officially steps into university life.

## Notable quotes > [04:53](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=293s) the world's defining University dedicated to the public good. — Laurie McCauley

> [07:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=454s) To use a parlance of our times, keep that same energy. It will serve you well. — Laurie McCauley

> [07:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=454s) someone who spends a great deal of time thinking about your classes before you ever have to. — Laurie McCauley

> [07:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=454s) stay in dialogue with them past the point of comfort. — Laurie McCauley

> [13:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=795s) You belong. Each of you belongs here. Now is your time. — Adele Brumfield

> [20:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1242s) with great power comes great responsibility — Martino Harmon

> [23:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1428s) watch the squirrels fulfill their secret plan to conquer Ann Arbor. — Summit Louth

> [23:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1428s) to receive respect, you need to give it. — Summit Louth

> [23:48](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1428s) Let's hit today with the kind of enthusiasm unknown to humankind. — Summit Louth

> [28:34](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=1714s) Welcome to the University of Michigan! We're Amazin' Blue, and get ready for the best four years of your life! — Amazin' Blue

> [39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2364s) always let the Michigan campus itself influence you. — Domenico Grasso

> [39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2364s) imagine yourself at Hogwarts — Domenico Grasso

> [39:24](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2364s) know that you too are influencers. — Domenico Grasso

> [40:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2452s) the greatest college fight song ever written, 'The Victors.' — Domenico Grasso

> [40:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM&t=2452s) welcome to Michigan and forever go Blue — Domenico Grasso

## Mentioned University of Michigan, Crisler Center, Kentaro Toyama, Lilly Hunwick, School of Music, Theatre & Dance, The Star-Spangled Banner, Laurie McCauley, School of Dentistry, Medical School, W.K. Kellogg, Anishinaabe, Ojibwe, Odawa, Potawatomi, Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids, University Musical Society, Bert's Ticket Program, Adele Brumfield, Office of New Student Programs, Martino Harmon, Housing ResStaff, Center for Campus Involvement, Michigan Dining, Summit Louth, Central Student Government, Tom Brady, Michael Phelps, Madonna, James Earl Jones, Law Quad, Diag, Amazin' Blue, American Authors, Best Day of My Life, Domenico Grasso, Michigan Stadium, Time, Harvard University, Yale University, Stanford University, MIT, University of Chicago, IShowSpeed, Alix Earle, Mark Rober, Homer, Odyssey, Nichols Arboretum, Maya Lin, Wave Field, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Regent's Plaza Cube, University of Michigan Golf Course, The Yellow and Blue, The Victors

## Video description Crisler Center August 30, 2026

Version without audio description can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cT4Un_LCqyM

[Source](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVQdG04bxLM)

中文简报

Grasso欢迎从11.5万名申请者中脱颖而出的密歇根大学2026届新生大学领导层告诫新生，学术韧性与社会影响力需要积极结识持不同意识形态者，并在超越舒适区后继续保持对话。开学典礼正式接纳2026年秋季入学新生加入University of Michigan社区，典礼以原住民土地致辞和关于学术严谨性的发言拉开帷幕。包括教务长Laurie McCauley、副教务长Adele Brumfield、副校长Martino Harmon和校长Domenico Grasso在内的大学领导层，与中央学生会主席Summit Louth一同鼓励学生保持充满探索欲的好奇心、化解分歧，并负责任地运用自身影响力。活动还包括由Lilly Hunwick演唱的国歌，以及阿卡贝拉合唱团Amazin' Blue带来的流行改编曲目等音乐表演。典礼最后呼吁学生参与公民事务，并在校歌和《The Victors》的传统欢送曲目中圆满落幕。副教务长Adele Brumfield宣布，2026年秋季入学新生是从超过11.5万名潜在申请者的创纪录生源池中选拔而出的。 (13:15) 教务长Laurie McCauley发表了正式的土地致辞，纪念1817年的《湍滩脚条约》（Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids），根据该条约，阿尼希纳贝人（Anishinaabe）为了教育向该校进行了最大规模的单次土地转让。 (4:53) 校长Domenico Grasso列举了学校所获荣誉，包括该校有110个项目位列全美前10名，以及在《时代》（Time）杂志全球排名中位列第9名。 (33:36) 演讲嘉宾敦促新入学的Wolverines参与公民事务，引导符合条件的选民通过govote.umich.edu登记参加即将于11月3日举行的选举。 (39:24)

Reading summary

At the 2026 New Student Convocation, University of Michigan leaders and student representatives urged the incoming cohort to balance rigorous scholarship with exploratory play, while actively seeking dialogue across divergent cultural and political perspectives. Institutional Origins, Admissions Scale, and Global Reach (4:53) Provost Laurie McCauley opened the academic portion of the ceremony by acknowledging that the university occupies the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people, noting that the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi nations transferred this land in the 1817 Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids with the express intent that their children would be educated. Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Adele Brumfield reported that the fall 2026 class was selected from an applicant pool exceeding 115,000 prospective students, drawn from across the United States, territories, and international regions. Brumfield and President Domenico Grasso emphasized the scale awaiting these students, noting that the cohort will eventually join a network of over 710,000 living alumni. Grasso further supported this institutional stature by citing external rankings, including 110 university programs ranked in the national top 10 and a ninth-place global ranking from Time magazine. Academic Rigor, Play, and Civil Disagreement (7:34) Addressing the institution's immense research footprint—ranging from quantum mechanics to tumor-destroying acoustic histotripsy—McCauley advised incoming students not to let academic intensity overwhelm personal curiosity. She urged them to balance rigorous intellectual work with playful community exploration, recommending campus art museums, adaptive wheelchair basketball, and performing arts access through the University Musical Society. Both McCauley and Vice President for Student Life Martino Harmon challenged students to actively engage peers with conflicting viewpoints. Referencing the orientation module 'Talking Maize and Blue,' McCauley instructed students to deliberately remain in conversation past the point of comfort when encountering moral or political disagreements. Harmon reinforced this charge, stating that acquiring knowledge brings a responsibility to listen closely and step outside comfort zones across a diverse campus. Alumni Precedent and Redefining Student Influence (35:54) Central Student Government President Summit Louth situated the matriculating class within an established lineage of achievement, referencing alumni who served as heads of state, three Supreme Court justices, 35 Pulitzer Prize recipients, 10 Nobel laureates, and medical researchers who helped develop the polio and influenza vaccines. He stated that meaningful contributions depend on practicing mutual respect. President Grasso reframed modern concepts of social influence, arguing that students are fundamentally shaped by accessible faculty across diverse fields, their peers, and unique campus assets—such as the Western Hemisphere's largest collection of ancient papyri, which houses millennia-old fragments of Homer's Odyssey. Grasso emphasized that this influence operates reciprocally, telling students that their ideas will reshape the university community provided they lead with empathy. Campus Geography and Active Civic Engagement (39:24) Speakers encouraged students to let Ann Arbor's physical environment support their well-being, pointing to spaces such as the Nichols Arboretum, the Law Quad, and Maya Lin's Wave Field earthwork on North Campus. Beyond internal campus spaces, speakers called on eligible American citizens to exercise their agency through civic participation by registering for the upcoming November 3 election through the university's voting portal. The convocation set expectations for intellectual openness, peer dialogue, and civic responsibility, though it did not address how students are to navigate institutional support systems when facing severe academic stress or entrenched campus polarization.

Source quotes

[4:53] Laurie McCauley: the world's defining University dedicated to the public good. [7:34] Laurie McCauley: To use a parlance of our times, keep that same energy. It will serve you well. [7:34] Laurie McCauley: someone who spends a great deal of time thinking about your classes before you ever have to. [7:34] Laurie McCauley: stay in dialogue with them past the point of comfort. [13:15] Adele Brumfield: You belong. Each of you belongs here. Now is your time. [20:42] Martino Harmon: with great power comes great responsibility [23:48] Summit Louth: watch the squirrels fulfill their secret plan to conquer Ann Arbor. [23:48] Summit Louth: to receive respect, you need to give it. [23:48] Summit Louth: Let's hit today with the kind of enthusiasm unknown to humankind. [28:34] Amazin' Blue: Welcome to the University of Michigan! We're Amazin' Blue, and get ready for the best four years of your life! [39:24] Domenico Grasso: always let the Michigan campus itself influence you. [39:24] Domenico Grasso: imagine yourself at Hogwarts [39:24] Domenico Grasso: know that you too are influencers. [40:52] Domenico Grasso: the greatest college fight song ever written, 'The Victors.' [40:52] Domenico Grasso: welcome to Michigan and forever go Blue

Original transcript

[2:40] KENTARO TOYAMA: On behalf of the faculty of the University [2:42] of Michigan, it is my great pleasure [2:44] to welcome you to new student convocation. [2:48] Please rise, if you're able, for our national anthem. [2:51] It will be sung by school of music, theater and dance [2:54] senior, Lilly Hunwick. [2:59] (SINGING) O say, can you see [3:08] By the dawn's early light [3:14] What so proudly we hailed [3:19] At the twilight's last gleaming [3:25] Whose broad stripes and bright stars [3:31] Through the perilous fight [3:35] O'er the ramparts we watched [3:41] Were so gallantly streaming [3:48] And the Rocket's red glare [3:51] The bombs bursting in air [3:57] Gave proof through the night [4:04] That our flag was still there [4:09] O say, does that star Spangled banner yet wave [4:23] O'er the land of the free [4:30] And the home of the brave [4:39] [APPLAUSE] [4:53] LAURIE MCCAULEY: Good afternoon. [4:59] I'm Laurie McCauley, provost and executive vice [5:02] president for academic affairs, professor [5:05] of periodontics in the dental school, [5:07] and pathology in the medical school. [5:10] It's an honor to welcome you all to the University of Michigan, [5:15] the world's defining University dedicated to the public good. [5:20] Let's give another round of applause for Lilly [5:23] Hunwick and the musicians-- [5:26] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [5:34] --and the musicians from the School [5:36] of Music, theater and dance for the music [5:38] that began our ceremony. [5:41] [APPLAUSE] [5:47] I want to acknowledge Kentaro Toyama, the WK Kellogg [5:52] professor of community information, [5:54] professor of information, and chair of our faculty senate, [5:58] representing our talented and enthusiastic faculty. [6:02] They are eager to meet you. [6:05] As we welcome our new students, I [6:07] would also like to thank the parents, family, teachers, [6:11] advisors, and friends who have supported them. [6:16] The University representatives seated on the stage [6:20] include the university's executive officers and the deans [6:24] of the schools and colleges. [6:26] They will be identified individually [6:29] on the video screens throughout the program. [6:33] As we begin, I want to recognize an important part [6:36] of our history-- [6:37] a land transfer from the Indigenous people of this area. [6:42] The University of Michigan is located [6:44] on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people. [6:49] In 1817, the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi nations [6:54] made the largest single land transfer [6:57] to the University of Michigan. [7:00] This was offered ceremonially through the treaty [7:02] at the foot of the Rapids so their children [7:05] could be educated. [7:08] Through these words of acknowledgment, [7:10] their contemporary and ancestral ties to the land, [7:13] and their contributions to the University [7:16] are renewed and reaffirmed. [7:21] Students, welcome to the University of Michigan. [7:26] [APPLAUSE] [7:34] We may not have had the chance to meet yet, [7:36] but I know a couple things about you already. [7:40] I know that you have what it takes [7:42] to make it at one of the best universities in the world. [7:46] That's why you're in this room. [7:49] And for that, you should be very, very proud. [7:53] Let's hear it for the next generation of Wolverines. [7:58] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [8:06] I also know that you chose to attend new student convocation. [8:10] That tells me you're excited, serious people [8:12] who are ready to dig in deeply into life at this University. [8:18] To use a parlance of our times, keep that same energy. [8:27] It will serve you well. [8:30] There is one more thing I know about you. [8:33] You likely have no idea what a provost is. [8:38] That's all right. [8:39] Many people don't. [8:41] As provost, I oversee the academic side [8:44] of Michigan, our schools and colleges, faculty, [8:47] academic programs, and ultimately the education [8:51] you are here to receive. [8:55] Think of me as someone who spends [8:56] a great deal of time thinking about your classes [9:00] before you ever have to. [9:03] And since I have you captive for a few minutes, [9:06] I want to offer two thoughts about how [9:09] to make the most of them. [9:13] First, this is a colossal, fascinating, and sometimes [9:18] intimidating place. [9:22] We have experts in quantum mechanics, [9:25] we destroy tumors with sound waves and race solar powered [9:29] cars. [9:34] On this campus, you'll share hallways and beautiful [9:37] green spaces with prominent scholars, famous authors, [9:41] and athletes. [9:43] We have multiple campuses, a hospital system, [9:46] and more than 180 centers and institutes. [9:56] Here's my advice-- when your intelligence is called for, [10:02] use it. [10:04] And at this University, it will be called for often. [10:09] But otherwise, embrace a spirit of curiosity and play. [10:14] Relax into this community. [10:16] Just go and explore. [10:19] This is a place of big, intriguing sculptures. [10:28] What do they mean? [10:30] Go inside the art museum and ask someone. [10:33] Find someone who shares your fear of heights [10:36] and take up rock climbing. [10:39] Did you know that people of all abilities [10:42] can play wheelchair basketball here side by side? [10:47] Give it a shot. [10:49] And when you're done, after you go home and shower, [10:51] attend a free musical performance [10:54] through births ticket program from the University [10:57] musical society. [11:06] My second piece of advice pertains [11:09] to the frustrating, fascinating, undeniable fact [11:13] that you are surrounded by people who do not see [11:17] the world the same way you do. [11:20] Among the thousands of people sharing this experience [11:25] with you, precisely none of them think exactly as you do. [11:34] Many of you will disagree with one [11:36] another about important, even profound aspects [11:39] of life, education, politics, culture, or even morality. [11:45] The people seated around you hold more views of the world [11:49] than any of you can currently imagine. [11:52] Over the next four years, they will be as much [11:55] a part of your education as anything I've described. [12:03] Many of you have been through our program [12:06] talking maize and blue. [12:08] So you have already practiced this in miniature. [12:12] Seek out those who see things differently [12:15] and stay in dialogue with them past the point of comfort. [12:26] Doing so will immeasurably improve your education [12:30] and perhaps more importantly, give you [12:33] the tools to succeed in the broader world after graduation. [12:39] Thank you. [12:44] And once again, welcome to the University of Michigan. [12:49] [APPLAUSE] [12:57] And now I'm pleased to introduce vice provost for enrollment [13:01] management, Adele Brumfield. [13:04] [APPLAUSE] [13:15] ADELE BRUMFIELD: Hello, Wolverines. [13:20] My name is Adele Brumfield. [13:23] And I have the privilege of serving as vice provost [13:26] for enrollment management. [13:28] My team in admissions, financial aid, the registrar, [13:32] office of new student programs, and communications [13:36] were joined by so many colleagues across our schools, [13:40] colleges, and campus units to help you find your way here. [13:47] I want to warmly welcome each of you [13:50] to the University of Michigan. [14:00] You made it. [14:03] [APPLAUSE] [14:10] The journey has been years in the making. [14:14] It required determination, sacrifice, hard work, [14:19] and the courage to pursue something bigger. [14:24] And today, you are all officially Michigan Wolverines. [14:30] [APPLAUSE] [14:42] For fall 2026, more than 115,000 talented students apply to join [14:50] this remarkable University and you distinguish yourselves. [14:55] It wasn't just your academic achievements [14:58] that sets you apart. [15:00] There was so much more. [15:02] You are intellectually curious, resilient, creative, [15:07] and bold thinkers who possess strong character [15:11] and demonstrated leadership ability. [15:17] Your potential to contribute to our community [15:19] in significant ways and make us stronger is tremendous. [15:25] And that's why we chose you. [15:33] And we are so grateful that you chose us. [15:37] [APPLAUSE] [15:44] Now, many people helped you arrive here today-- [15:48] parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles, [15:51] siblings, teachers, counselors, coaches, mentors, and friends. [16:00] Now, today is your achievement, but it is also theirs. [16:04] I hope you take time to thank them. [16:08] Don't forget those people will always be in your corner. [16:12] So remain connected and keep them posted [16:15] on what's happening here. [16:20] It will put smiles on their faces [16:22] and remind you that you are not alone. [16:26] Our newest Wolverines come from across Michigan, [16:30] around the country, our US territories, and countries [16:34] around the globe. [16:36] Now, some of you are the first in your family [16:39] to attend college. [16:48] Others have dreamed of Michigan since childhood, [16:52] having heard stories from their family members of their time [16:56] on our campus. [16:57] And some of you never imagined that the state of Michigan [17:02] would be your college home. [17:13] Now, through your own process of discernment, each of you [17:17] saw something special in the University of Michigan [17:20] community that made you believe that we [17:23] could help be a catalyst in helping you achieve your dreams. [17:29] A Michigan education, It's about more than earning a degree. [17:34] It will challenge you to think critically, ask better [17:37] questions, collaborate across differences, [17:40] and lead with integrity, humility, and compassion. [17:46] Like some of you, I remember arriving on my own college [17:50] campus a long, long time ago as the first in my family to attend [17:57] a four year University. [18:00] I remember wondering whether I truly belonged. [18:05] You belong. [18:07] Each of you belongs here. [18:10] Now is your time. [18:13] Now remember, if you need help, even [18:16] with something that seems small, set your pride aside and ask [18:21] for it. [18:22] Your professors, advisors, counselors, classmates, mentors, [18:26] coaches, and staff, we're invested in your success. [18:31] We are all in this together. [18:35] A few short years from now, you'll walk across a graduation [18:39] stage, much like this one, beaming with pride at what [18:43] you've accomplished, ready to join our alumni of over 710,000 [18:49] strong. [18:52] You'll celebrate with your friends, [18:55] remembering the things that frustrated you, [18:58] and those that gave you immense joy. [19:04] You will be a changed person, prepared [19:08] for whatever comes next. [19:11] You'll be ready. [19:12] The world has long looked to Michigan [19:15] for leadership, discovery, and innovation. [19:25] And soon, the world will be looking to you. [19:29] So be curious, be courageous, be kind, support one another, [19:34] challenge yourselves, and never lose [19:38] sight of the responsibility and privilege that [19:41] comes with calling yourself a Michigan Wolverine. [19:46] Welcome to your new home. [19:51] Welcome to the University of Michigan. [19:53] And forever, go Blue. [19:56] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [20:02] Now, now it's my pleasure to welcome our next speaker, vice [20:06] president for student life, Martino Harmon. [20:10] [APPLAUSE] [20:17] MARTINO HARMON: Good afternoon, Wolverines, [20:20] and welcome to Michigan. [20:21] As your vice president for student life, [20:24] I'm honored to greet you in this historic Chrysler Center [20:28] at the start of what promises to be an exciting journey. [20:33] Over the coming weeks, months, and yes, years, [20:38] you'll explore campus, meet new friends, [20:42] and create a Michigan experience that is uniquely yours. [20:47] You'll continue to dream big dreams and fulfill them. [20:51] Today is a brand new day. [20:54] Today, you will join a community overflowing with opportunities. [21:06] Your experiences and knowledge of yourself and of others [21:11] and of the world that we all live in, [21:13] will grow exponentially. [21:21] That knowledge will make you powerful. [21:24] And yes, it's true. [21:26] With great power comes great responsibility. [21:30] Knowledge is, in my opinion, one of humankind's greatest [21:35] superpowers. [21:42] Students, we have big expectations [21:45] of what you will do with your growing superpower [21:48] and your super responsibility. [21:52] The University of Michigan is a place where people come together [21:55] from every imaginable background, [21:58] bringing with them unique ideas, perspectives, opinions, [22:03] and dreams. [22:07] This makes our University a powerful place. [22:11] You see, you are responsible for challenging yourself today [22:15] and every day, to learn from those whose experiences may [22:20] be different from yours. [22:25] Be curious, listen well, and ask thoughtful questions. [22:31] Mindfully step outside of your comfort zone. [22:35] This is how you'll make the most of Michigan. [22:40] And before you know it, you'll be in that big house next door [22:45] for graduation, ready to join a vast network of alumni dedicated [22:50] to making a difference all over the world. [22:56] Students, thank you for being here, and for all [23:00] that I know you will do in the future. [23:06] The rich history and traditions of Michigan [23:08] continue on this day because of you. [23:13] Before I finish, I want to take a moment [23:16] to thank the Housing Rest Staff, the Office of New Student [23:21] Programs, the Center for Campus Involvement, Michigan Dining, [23:27] and the hundreds of staff volunteers [23:29] from across campus for their work to make move in and welcome [23:33] as seamless as possible. [23:36] Please join me in giving them all round of applause. [23:39] [APPLAUSE] [23:48] Now, it is my pleasure to welcome [23:50] our next speaker, the president of central student [23:53] government, Summit Louth. [23:59] [APPLAUSE] [24:00] SUMMITH LOUTH: Thank you so much. [24:02] MARTINO HARMON: You got it. [24:02] SUMMITH LOUTH: Thank you. [24:06] Hello, Wolverines. [24:11] My name is summit Louth. [24:12] And I have the unique and incredible privilege [24:16] of serving as your student body president. [24:19] Today is about you. [24:23] I'm sure that you're nervous, that you [24:25] don't know when or where you're going to make friends. [24:28] And I know many of you in this audience [24:31] are so overwhelmed by your own ambitions [24:34] that you're already thinking about what [24:36] needs to be done to succeed. [24:42] While the friendships you make at this storied institution [24:46] become lifelong bonds, and while the career [24:49] you can achieve through this prestigious University [24:52] can reach to the highest levels of every imaginable profession, [24:57] I want you to silence all the noise just for today [25:02] and remind yourself just how far you've come. [25:06] Each and every one of you is now a part [25:09] of the greatest University on the face of the Earth. [25:19] You are now among the likes of hundreds [25:21] of members of Congress, three Supreme Court justices, [25:26] prime ministers and presidents of Italy, Jordan, Pakistan, [25:30] Madagascar, Costa Rica, and the United States of America. [25:40] You're joining researchers who helped invent the flu and polio [25:44] vaccines. [25:45] You're joining 35 Pulitzer Prize winners and 10 Nobel laureates. [25:50] And finally, you're joining the likes of all time legends, [25:54] GOATs like Tom Brady, Michael Phelps, Madonna, [25:57] and the late great James Earl Jones. [26:06] The fact that you are now a part of this University, [26:11] our University, is an immeasurably monumental [26:15] accomplishment that I want all of you [26:17] to take today to truly internalize. [26:21] I ask you to take this week to walk around and soak [26:25] in our green and historic campus. [26:28] Walk around the Law Quad and lay on the grass on the diag [26:32] and watch the squirrels fulfill their secret plan [26:35] to conquer Ann Arbor. [26:38] They're coming for us. [26:40] And while you're on our campus, while you experience our campus, [26:48] your campus, remind yourself just how proud your loved ones [26:52] are, and just how proud our Michigan family is to welcome [26:56] you into our unrival community. [27:00] You have so many friends you are yet to have, [27:04] you have so many stories you are yet to create, [27:07] and you have so many positive things [27:09] that you are going to contribute to this world. [27:12] Your contributions to society won't just [27:15] come from your professional life, [27:17] but they'll come from the loved ones [27:18] whose lives you make brighter. [27:21] Members of our Michigan family are [27:22] able to lead such incredible lives because we believe [27:25] in the core tenet that to receive respect, [27:28] you need to give it. [27:31] I ask you to appreciate today because today [27:36] is the first day of your new life as one [27:39] of the leaders and best. [27:43] Every single morning, before waking up for school [27:46] and going to school, my father and I [27:48] would recite a phrase inspired by a Michigan alum. [27:51] Right before getting out of the car, every morning, we'd say, [27:54] let's hit today with the kind of enthusiasm unknown to humankind. [28:00] And so today, to celebrate and mark [28:04] the beginning of the best era of all of your lives, I say to you, [28:10] let's hit today with the kind of enthusiasm unknown to humankind. [28:15] Go Blue, baby. [28:16] Now-- oh, I'm sorry. [28:22] Next up, I would like to welcome the University [28:27] of Michigan's oldest all gender a cappella group, Amazin' Blue. [28:34] Give it up for them. [28:37] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [28:51] [VOCALIZING] [29:00] (SINGING) I had a dream so big and loud [29:03] I jumped so high, I touch the [29:06] Oh-oh-oh oh-oh oh-oh [29:10] I'll stretch my hands up to the sky [29:13] We danced with monsters through the night [29:16] Oh-oh-oh oh-oh oh-oh [29:21] I'm never gonna look back, whoa [29:24] I'm never going to give it up, no [29:27] Just don't wake me now [29:34] This is gonna be the best day of my life [29:39] My life [29:44] This is gonna be the best day of my life [29:49] My life [29:56] Oh [30:02] I howl at the moon with friends [30:04] And then the sun came crashing in [30:07] Oh-oh-oh oh-oh oh-oh [30:12] And all the possibilities [30:15] No limits, just epiphanies [30:17] Oh-oh-oh oh-oh oh-oh [30:23] I'm never gonna look back, whoa [30:26] I'm never going to give it up, no [30:29] Just don't wake me now [30:36] This is gonna be the best day of my life [30:40] My life [30:44] Whoa [30:46] This is gonna be the best day of my life [30:50] My life [30:57] Oh [31:03] I hear it calling outside my window [31:08] I feel it in my soul [31:13] The stars are burning so bright [31:16] The sun was up till midnight [31:19] I say we lose control [31:25] STUDENT: Welcome to the University of Michigan [31:27] We're Amazin' Blue. [31:28] And get ready for the best four years of your life. [31:32] 1, 2, 3, 4! [31:37] (SINGING) This is gonna be the best day of my life [31:41] My live [31:44] Oh [31:47] This is going to be the best day of my life [31:51] My live [31:55] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [32:18] [UPBEAT MUSIC] [33:36] MARTINO HARMON: Wow, what a great montage. [33:38] And let's give another round of applause for Amazin' Blue. [33:41] [APPLAUSE] [33:48] That montage was provided by the Office of New Student Programs. [33:52] We hope this gives you an exciting glimpse [33:54] into all of the possibilities that await you [33:57] across our beautiful campus. [34:00] Now, without any further ado, it is my honor to introduce [34:04] the 16th president of the University of Michigan, [34:08] Domenico Grasso. [34:10] [APPLAUSE] [34:16] DOMENICO GRASSO: Thank you, Vice President Harmon. [34:26] Students, I want to join in welcoming you [34:29] to Michigan, the greatest University in the world. [34:34] And this is not hyperbole. [34:37] Come to opening football game on September 5, [34:41] and you will hear the great James Earl Jones, Michigan alum, [34:46] and the voice of Darth Vader say the same thing. [34:53] And 115,000 people will roar in agreement. [34:59] That's because we have 110 programs ranked in the top 10. [35:05] And you'll soon experience some of them. [35:09] Time Magazine ranked Michigan as the number 9 University [35:15] in the world. [35:16] The only American universities ahead of us [35:21] were Harvard, Yale, Stanford, MIT, and Chicago. [35:26] And I know they got some of those wrong. [35:31] And we are welcoming you here in Chrysler Center, home [35:36] of the best basketball team in the land and 2026 [35:41] national champions. [35:44] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [35:54] You are all new to Michigan and we are just [35:57] getting to know one another. [35:59] But I am going to make a bold statement [36:01] about who you are and say that in the past 45 minutes, [36:07] you have probably looked at your phones. [36:11] Am I right? [36:15] You've checked sports scores, you're [36:18] probably buying more stuff for your dorm rooms, [36:21] and watching your favorite influencers. [36:24] Maybe you enjoy Ishowspeed Alix Earle. [36:32] And I'm guessing some aspiring engineers here [36:35] are following Mark Rober. [36:38] Well, I have an alert for you. [36:41] You have just become part of the world's ultimate influencers, [36:47] the University of City of Michigan. [36:49] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [36:57] Michigan faculty are among the best in the world. [37:00] They are scientists, engineers, and musicians, poets, nurses, [37:05] and teachers, archeologists, computer scientists, [37:10] and social workers. [37:12] They are experts who are waiting to teach you. [37:16] Our faculty will inspire and challenge you, [37:18] encourage you to think in new ways. [37:23] They want to hear your ideas and questions, [37:25] whether in the classrooms or in the hallways. [37:29] When they offer office hours, go to them. [37:33] Having one on one conversations with your professors [37:36] will be among the best experiences of your time [37:40] at Michigan. [37:42] Your fellow students will influence you. [37:45] That includes your roommates, the new faces and large lecture [37:49] halls, and the strangers you meet in a student organization. [37:54] If you're feeling a little bit anxious or uncertain [37:57] about being alone here, you're not alone. [38:01] Almost everyone does at some point. [38:04] And even if the person sitting next to you [38:06] looks completely confident, know that they're [38:09] experiencing the same thing. [38:12] We believe you will do well. [38:15] That's why we admitted you and wanted you [38:18] to be part of our community. [38:20] You'll meet classmates from across the country [38:22] and around the world whose experiences, backgrounds, [38:26] and perspectives may be very different from your own. [38:30] That is one of the things that makes Michigan so [38:33] fascinating and so influential. [38:43] Prepare to be influenced by live music, museum exhibits, [38:49] artistic performances, library collections, rallies [38:53] on the diag, and notable speakers who visit campus. [38:56] Among our holdings is included. [39:00] The largest collection of papyri in the Western hemisphere. [39:04] Papyri is plural for papyrus, if you're interested in that. [39:09] And that includes fragments of Homer's original Odyssey, [39:14] thousands of years old, right here in Ann Arbor. [39:18] All of this is designed to challenge your thinking [39:21] and broaden your perspectives. [39:24] And always let the Michigan campus itself influence you. [39:29] Make time to explore the Arb in the fall. [39:33] Enjoy the walking paths and pond on North Campus. [39:37] Visit Maya Lin's Wave Field on North Campus. [39:40] Maya was the architect of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, [39:44] DC, and she designed this for us here in Ann Arbor. [39:49] Hang out in the Law Quad and imagine yourself at Hogwarts. [39:55] Spin the cube and jump over the block M. [39:58] Let the beauty of Michigan recharge [40:01] you mentally and physically. [40:04] And as you do all this, know that you too are influencers. [40:09] You have the ideas, talent, and creativity [40:12] to shape and change those around you. [40:16] Always do so with empathy and kindness, [40:19] because we are proud of our sense of community [40:23] and the ways we support one another. [40:26] There is one more important way that you can use your influence. [40:31] That's election day in November, November 3. [40:35] If you are an American citizen and not yet registered to vote, [40:39] please do so either here in Ann Arbor or in your hometown. [40:44] You can learn all the details at govote.umich.edu. [40:52] Again, we're so excited to have you as part of our community. [40:56] As we conclude, I have two important notes to share. [40:59] First of the many notes you will take as students. [41:04] First, those of us on stage will lead the recessional march [41:07] which closes the program. [41:09] Please remain in your seats until the recessional [41:12] is complete. [41:13] Second, this is the really important part-- [41:16] please join your classmates at the Michigan golf [41:20] course across the street from a tailgate. [41:24] But before any of us leave, I would [41:26] like to invite the fanfare band to send us off [41:30] with two songs that are part of the Michigan tradition. [41:34] The first we will hear is the Michigan Alma mater, [41:39] "The Yellow and Blue." [41:40] This might be your first time hearing this anthem, [41:43] but it won't be your last. [41:45] You'll often hear it at the end of football games [41:48] and at ceremonial events like your commencement [41:51] in a few years. [41:52] Then the band will perform the greatest college fight song ever [41:57] written, "The Victors." [42:00] A Michigan student wrote that song more than 125 years ago. [42:06] You never know what you will create here, [42:09] what idea you will have, or what change you will make. [42:14] That's the kind of influence you can have. [42:17] You are strongly encouraged to sing loudly and proudly. [42:23] Once again, welcome to Michigan and forever go Blue. [42:27] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [42:30] [DRUM ROLL] [42:52] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [43:43] ALL: And up! [43:49] ["THE YELLOW AND BLUE" PLAYING] [44:56] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [45:06] ["THE VICTORS" PLAYING] [45:58] [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] [46:02] [BAND MUSIC]