Tuesday, September 2, 2025 | The College Green

Brown University President Christina H. Paxson will officially proclaim the opening of the 2025-26 academic year and welcome new students to campus at Brown’s 262nd Opening Convocation. Prior to the ceremony, new incoming students will take part in a procession through the Van Wickle Gates — a tradition marking the beginning of their Brown education and their entrance into the Brown community. Traditionally, students pass through the open gates only once more during their time at Brown, exiting outward at Commencement. The 2025 keynote address “Transitions and Transformations: Making the Most of Your Brown Education” will be delivered by Ethan Pollock, dean of the College at Brown University.

Convocation Schedule

• 3:30 p.m. Procession lineup
• 3:45 p.m. Livestream begins
• 3:50 p.m. Procession steps off
• 4:30 p.m. (estimated) Ceremony

The Convocation procession of incoming students forms on College and Prospect streets at 3:30 p.m. and steps off at 3:50 p.m. 

To request accommodations, please contact eventstrategy@brown.edu.

Watch the Livestream