Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2026 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Freshman Convocation officially welcomes Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's incoming first-year students to the campus community. Held just before the start of classes, the ceremony features remarks from Institute leadership, a keynote address, and a welcome from the Grand Marshal, celebrating the beginning of each student's academic journey. An ice cream dessert reception follows the ceremony.