Considering Tradition on a Changing Campus

On the last day of Orientation, I found myself attending Amherst’s opening convocation. Led by President Biddy Martin, assembly began with the ceremonial entrance of the faculty dressed in a colorful array of felted robes and hoods. The presentation of honorary degrees was then followed by a speech from President Martin. The convocation finally concluded with a unified singing of our school song, “Amherst Hymn.” As a first year, I was beholden to this display from my uncomfortable perch in a Jo