New Chargers Encouraged to ‘Power On’ During University’s Interactive Convocation

It’s been a memorable summer for Vinny Orfini ’27. The volunteer Emergency Medical Technician helped rescue two injured hikers on the Appalachian Trail earlier this summer, making national news. More recently, he officially started his college career at the University of New Haven.

A fire science major with a concentration in fire/arson investigation, Orfini shared his story and offered a warm welcome to his fellow Chargers as part of the University’s Convocation. Orfini acknowledged that he’d initially thought going to college wasn’t for him. But when his mother suggested he study the science behind fires, something he would certainly enjoy, he was open to it. They visited the University, and when he saw the campus, met with faculty members, and, of course, met Charlie, he knew he’d found his home for the next four years.

“I would be able to get away from home a little bit and make some new friends from all over,” said Orfini, who hails from Stony Point, NY. “Most importantly, I would work toward that bachelor's degree that I never thought I would get.”

‘Purpose, people, and pizza’

A fully charged and exciting event, Convocation enabled the newest students to show off their Charger pride while getting to know each other. As Sheahon Zenger, Ph.D., interim president of the University told them, Convocation at the University of New Haven is not a somber or subdued event as it is at many universities. Instead, faculty and staff want new students to have a great time.

“Fun” was an important part of Dr. Zenger’s message to the Class of 2027. He encouraged them to take advantage of everything the University has to offer – including its proximity to beaches, great food, and New York City. He also shared with them his “Three Ps” that, for him, make the University such a special place.

“Purpose, people, and pizza – and pizza is a metaphor for social life,” he explained. “College should be fun, so don’t be afraid to have a little fun. Also, you’re now part of us. We are now one big family. Make the University your home and embrace everybody.”

‘Find your place among your peers’

Fun was had and the power was turned up as the Chargers Marching Band performed the University Fight Song and staff surprised students with a performance on stage. They held bright signs that spelled out “power on,” drawing cheers and smiles from the new students.

Many returning students were excited to be part of Convocation and to welcome their new classmates to the Charger community. Darby Brown ’24, president of the Undergraduate Student Government Association, addressed them with enthusiasm. She encouraged new Chargers to take note of who was sitting to their left, to their right, and behind them.

“The students you just saw are entering the same world,” explained Brown, a forensic science major. “Your journey may be different, but your destination is the same. You will find your place among your peers.”

‘Engagement is key’

Allen Love ’88, ’90 MPA, ’23 Hon. also extended a warm welcome to the Class of 2027. In his keynote address, he shared his own experience of his first year at the University. As a student, he created memories he still cherishes.

An active member of the University community, Love was a member of the football team and was involved with several clubs. He also worked both on and off campus, and he completed an internship as well as an independent study. He acknowledged that starting college can feel daunting, but he urged them to embrace the experience and to get involved.

“You will get through it with the support of the University family,” said Love, senior vice president and enterprise head of the Corporate Defense Group at TD Bank and a member of the University’s Board of Governors. “Engagement is key. I encourage all of you to take advantage of the programs the University has to offer. Let your University family help you through your journey. Get to know the faculty and staff. They want to get to know you and to see you succeed.”

‘I belonged here’

Convocation was part of an exciting Charge In Welcome Experience for new Chargers. Resident students moved into their residence halls, and students took part in a variety of activities that enabled them to get to know each other, including games and a barbecue.

Orfini, the new fire science major, was grateful for the warm welcome. He was also excited to have the chance to connect with his new classmates.

“The pride I have experienced on this campus has been awesome,” he said. “The faculty truly made me feel like I belong here. I'm so glad I made the decision to come to UNewHaven to study arson investigation.

“I hope all of you have an amazing time here in college,” Orfini said as he concluded his remarks to his classmates. “I look forward to meeting you all!”