Convocations at Loomis, which occur once every 1-2 months, are often frowned upon for their boring and unentertaining speakers. Students often remark on the little importance and relevance such lectures hold, leading many to question whether convocations should exist. In my opinion, I believe there is a purpose for most convocations and that they are a crucial part of Loomis for both students and faculty.
To bolster my claim, I asked Dean of Student Life Dean Matzkin for her thoughts. She said, “Science tells us that when people share stories, we often make connections, and those messages resonate with us.”
Likewise, Mr. Kammrath, Director of the Norton Center and Math Faculty, said, “[…] we think this is important enough to get everybody together and have extra time like an extra part of your education.”
He emphasized the purpose of enforcing student attendance, explaining, “ [These convocations are] viewed as being an important part of what makes the Loomis experience into a Loomis experience.”
While I resonate with the faculty perspective, I still acknowledge the common student complaints regarding convocations. Junior Pragnya Jois ‘26 said,“[…] personally, with all of my commitments, it’s difficult to manage time in a way that completely excludes community time and keeps it free for convocations or all school meetings or what have you.”
Sophomore Kofi Donkor ‘27 likewise argued that convocations aren’t the most optimal time-wise. “[…] People have stuff to do sometimes, and it takes up a lot of time, like say a free period you could’ve slept in for,” he said.
However, Kofi also noted, “If people took time to understand [convocations], they would appreciate it more,” adding that convocations are generally worth the time they take up.
Synthesizing the opinions of administration, staff, and students, it’s evident that convocations are a crucial part of Loomis. Though many share a sense of annoyance at convocations due to factors such as mandatory attendance, these meetings are still a crucial aspect of the Loomis Identity.