The newest cohort of John Jay freshman and transfer students — the entering class of 2016 —was formally welcomed to the college community at the annual New Student Convocation on Aug. 24, as President Jeremy Travis and other speakers exhorted them to take advantage of the resources and opportunities available to them.

“John Jay is unlike any other college in the world, and we hope that’s part of the reason you chose to come here,” said Travis, who added, “Being president of John Jay is one of the great professional accomplishments of my life, and it’s because of you.”

Travis noted with pride the diversity of the John Jay student body, singling out in turn such groups as non-New York City residents, those who are foreign-born, military veterans, transfer students, and those who are the first in their families to attend college.

“There is a lot going on in the world that really needs you to be actively engaged,” said Travis. “It is my honor as president to officially welcome you to John Jay College.” 

Meet the entering class of 2016.

The new students were treated to a glimpse of the light at the end of the academic tunnel in keynote remarks offered by Alumni Association President Shauna-Kay Gooden (B.A./M.P.A. ’04).

“Look to your left and to your right, and the person sitting there will be a great resource for you,” Gooden told those gathered in the Gerald W. Lynch Theater. “Use each other, and use the resources available to you. There will be obstacles, but don’t make excuses for them.”

Gooden, who is Associate Counsel for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, recalled the words of her mother who told her: “Good, better, best, never let it rest until your good is better and your better best.”

“Your life, your dreams, your goals are in your hands,” Gooden concluded, “and you can do whatever you want with them.”

The Convocation concluded with a pinning ceremony, and was followed by an open-air barbecue on the Jay Walk.