This year’s annual matriculation ceremony couldn’t have happened on a more perfect day. The sun shone down as the incoming freshman class and their families made their way into the UMPC Event Center in smiling emotional droves.
On the way in, everyone’s nerves were put at ease as Romo himself and RMU’s cheer team greeted the Class of 2028. Upon arrival, the sentimental folks among the crowds could grab an RMU sleeve of travel tissues; something parents and kids alike would need very shortly.
The RMU band roared to life as the one and only President Patrick was welcomed to the stage, along with the rest of the university’s leadership team. President Patrick brought her usual warmth and enthusiasm to her welcoming speech, getting the freshmen excited about all there is to look forward to. From activities as soon as taking a class picture on the lawn this Saturday the 24th, to graduation. Her charm and excitement were infectious, spreading quickly through the event center.
Shortly after a video of recent RMU graduates played as the fresh alumni spoke of their feelings toward the university they called home for four years. One graduate stated fondly, “When I toured the university for the first time, Robert Morris felt like home to me.”
Similar feelings of love and pride were shared as Dr. Joseph Zimmer, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs took the stage. He welcomed home the incoming class to the Robert Morris family. Dr. Zimmer also shared some words of encouragement, the same advice he gave his daughter a decade earlier when she started her collegiate journey. He read sincerely, “If someone wants to do something a little crazy, but not illegal…do it…you will never regret it.”
In these moments the large crowd sat captivated, as if they were the provost’s own children. Which, in a way as incoming students, they are. Another piece of fatherly wisdom Dr. Zimmer shared was clearly the room’s favorite, “When you get homesick, never forget the amazing healing powers of chocolate.” Truer words have never been spoken, and it’s safe to say Sarris Candies can thank Dr. Zimmer for the spike in sales that surely followed the ceremony.
Each dean also spoke, cheering on students from their schools and telling them where each upcoming reception would take place. Every year incoming students meet in their respective schools to connect with the advisors, professors, and fellow classmates they will lean on for the next four years. It was hard to tell who was more excited, the deans or the incoming students as a chorus of cheers rang out after each school was called.
President Patrick then took a moment to thank all the student leaders, one of which being Cameron Brinker, the 2025 Class President. Brinker spoke about the many opportunities Robert Morris has given him. “As I prepare to start my fourth and final academic year at RMU I can proudly say that RMU has prepared me and will continue to prepare me for my future career… Every single one of you will have the support, mentorship, and opportunity that will allow you to grow to be the best version of yourself.” Brinker shared his impressive accomplishments which surely gave incoming students something to aspire and reach towards.
After everyone had shared their words of encouragement, the band played as the cheer team, and Romo himself threw t-shirts out into the cheering crowd. The students and their families continued onward as orientation officially began. More welcoming activities, unpacking, and crying beckoned. But of course, on the way out everyone grabbed an RMU Matriculation snack bag, and off they went to start the next four years.
