Convocation 2025: New journeys and facing the unexpected
By Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Greeting the campus with words of encouragement, Governors State University (GovState) President Joyce C. Ester celebrated the start of the 2025-26 academic year at Convocation 2025. This event marked President Ester’s first campus-wide address at GovState.
“If no one has ever told you or you need further convincing, I am here to tell you that I believe in you. You are enough, you matter, you make a difference, and you belong here,” said President Ester.
As part of the ceremony, the Class of 2029 received cords in recognition of their decision to become a Jaguar, which they were encouraged to hold onto and wear on their graduation day.
New and returning Jaguars also received advice from student leaders and alumni, who pushed students to make the most of their time at GovState from engaging in student clubs to applying for scholarships.
Kaylie Dahms, a 2025 alumna who earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication, gave the keynote address, taking care to remind everyone of their own resilience.
“Your story is not finished. Every hardship you face is a part of the same narrative that will one day become your highlight reel,” said Dahms. “Whether you're a first-generation college student, a low-income student, a single parent, a student athlete, an international student, or just someone trying to get by—this campus will see your grit, and trust me, the world needs it.”
Now a full-time news anchor for KTIV in Sioux City, Iowa, Dahms recalled the hardships that she faced to get there, leaving the next classes of GovState with words she wished she could give her past self.
“I wish I could go back and whisper, ‘You have no idea what's coming.’ The beauty of this journey isn’t just where you end up. It's in everything you fought for to get there,” said Dahms.
President Ester remarked on the uniqueness of this academic year, her first as GovState President.
“You all represent a special class for me, because we're starting on this journey together,” said President Ester. “I look forward to seeing you on campus and cheering on your various successes. I look forward to greeting you again at the completion of your goal as you become Governors State University graduates and alumni. Welcome to Governors State and make it a great year.”
