The pre-posting of colors presented by the AROTC marked the beginning of the general student assembly, Wednesday at 10 a.m. held at William J. “Billy” Nicks Field House.
Following the Star Spangled Banner performed by the University Concert Chorale, the invocation was presented by Mr. Asad Abdul-Salaam, Mr. Prairie View 2006-2007, which was followed by the welcome from SGA Vice President, Bryan Robertson.
President George C. Wright gave an annual address to both new and returning students, faculty members, and guests. With a “Welcome back to the hill,” Dr. Wright acknowledged the many organizations gathered at the assembly and wished to inspire all students to set goals and meet them before they graduate.
The President gave a warm reminder to students to make valuable decisions and choices while in college and to remember how precious life is and that college will fundamentally change your life.
The president also called on students to learn and think for themselves and to not be easily persuaded by others. “Going upstream with everybody can be bad for you,” stated Dr. Wright on how students should listen to family members or role models who offer constructive criticism.
Zero tolerance on inappropriate behavior such as fighting, and drug use was also affirmed by the President.
Dr. Wright called on faculty members to help students achieve their goals while here at Prairie View. Junior Communications major Eric Thomas, spoke with agreement on faculty members becoming more involved in students academic success. “If we took a list of our goals to our advisors they probably wouldn’t pay it much concern, but I’m going to try it because they should try to help students with their goals, they are suppose to be here to help,” stated Thomas.
Dr. E. Johanne Thomas-Smith, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs recognized the many awards and honors received by each college and department. Programs such as Access and PAW were acknowledged for their community service involvement on and off campus.
The assembly ended with a purple and gold preview with performances by our cheerleaders, the Marching Storm and a brief spirit rally in support of the football team for the 22nd Annual Labor Day Classic.