Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | The College Green

Brown University President Christina H. Paxson will officially proclaim the opening of the 2026-27 academic year and welcome new students to campus at Brown’s 263rd 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 2026 keynote address “Why Openness and a Willingness to Take Risks Will Drive Your Success at Brown and Beyond” will be delivered by James R. Kellner, professor of ecology, evolution and organismal biology, professor of environment and society, and Associate Provost for Corporate Engagement at Brown University.

Convocation Schedule

• 2:45 p.m. Procession lineup
• 3:45 p.m. Livestream begins
• 3:50 p.m. Procession steps off
• 4:30 p.m. (estimated) Ceremony

All incoming students are asked to report to either the intersection of Prospect and George streets or the intersection of Prospect and Waterman streets at 2:45 p.m., where Brown IDs will be checked prior to joining the Convocation procession lineup. The procession will step off at 3:50 p.m., and the ceremony will begin around 4:30 p.m.

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

Watch the Livestream