The tradition celebrates ‘religious and spiritual roots’ of Chaminade life
One of the pillars that characterize a Marianist education is to educate for formation in faith. And there is perhaps no better example of this than during the Fall Spiritual Convocation.
A longstanding tradition at Chaminade, the Spiritual Convocation marks the beginning of the academic year, formally welcoming students, faculty and staff to the University community.
“It also affords the opportunity to ask for God’s blessing on our Chaminade ‘ohana as we come together as a community to live and learn,” said University President Lynn Babington.
“During this celebration, we take the time to pause and be mindful of each other.”
This sentiment of family spirit aligns with the Marianist approach to education, which seeks to nurture students’ unique talents and fosters a lifelong commitment to learning.
“Last Friday we took part in the Academic Convocation for this new academic year, emphasizing the hopes and aspirations, and taking our A‘a Pledge,” said Fr. Martin Solma S.M., during his sermon. “Today, fittingly, we touch upon the religious and spiritual roots of our University life.”
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During the Convocation, Bro. Ed Brink, Chaminade’s vice president of mission and rector, outlined the origins of the Marianist Educational Associates program. In 2005, representatives from Chaminade, the University of Dayton, and St. Mary’s University of San Antonio responded to a call from the Association of Marianist Universities Board to form a special partnership.
“This initiative invited lay collaborators to help sustain and renew the mission and identity of the universities, rooted in the Catholic and Marianist educational tradition,” Brink said.
“For students, faculty and staff who are new members of our community, it will give you another opportunity to learn about the rich traditions of the University.”
This past summer, seven Chaminade faculty and staff members participated in the MEA Formation in Dayton; the seven-day program involving readings, reflections and shared insights.
The MEA cohort includes:
- Andrew Ancheta ’21, student engagement coordinator
- Dr. Rylan Chong ’10, Data Science director and assistant professor
- Dr. Cheryl Edelson, School of Humanities, Arts and Design dean
- Dr. Abby Halston, MS ’05, Marriage and Family Counseling clinical director
- Kahala Kabalis Hoke ’05, MS ’07, women’s volleyball head coach
- Pono Riddle ’18, MEd’ 21, Student Success associate director
- Dr. Gail Grabowsky, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics dean
“These individuals are part of a community committed to strengthening and developing the Catholic and Marianist identity of this University,” Brink said, after calling the cohort’s names.
“I now ask you to affirm your commitment as Marianist Educational Associates.”
Brink also recognized the 23 Chaminade staff members and faculty who made their first commitment in previous years, asking them to stand and renew their commitment as Marianist Educational Associates.
In unison, the MEAs pledged to uphold and advance the Catholic and Marianist mission and identity of Chaminade University. They committed to ongoing reflection, collaboration, and the continuation of programs that reinforce Chaminade’s identity as a Catholic and Marianist University.
They also promised to support others in growing in their understanding and appreciation of the Catholic and Marianist traditions, aiming to embody and witness these traditions for the benefit of the world.
By offering a quality education and searching for truth through human wisdom and faith, Solma said students are able to expand their minds and hearts, and helps them become servant-leaders.
“And, all of this within our Chaminade ‘ohana, where respect, acceptance, appreciation and encouragement are palpable,” Solma added. “As Fr. Chaminade wanted—a genuine family spirit.”
