Convocation 2023 

The University of Iowa welcomes new students and opens the academic year with Convocation, where our newest Hawkeyes commit to the ideals of The IOWA Challenge to: excel, stretch, engage, choose, and serve.

Convocation brings our community together in a special way and at a special place—before the Old Capitol in the heart of our campus. The event begins with the ringing of the Old Capitol bell and a procession of faculty and staff in full academic regalia.

Convocation symbolizes our commitment to you, our students, and your commitment to us and to each other—to live and learn together.