University of Dubuque to Hold Opening Convocation

DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque's Opening Convocation will be held at 10:45 a.m. Thursday, September 10, 2026, in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center. For those who cannot attend in-person, the ceremony will be streamed live on UD's YouTube channel.

An annual tradition at the beginning of the year, Opening Convocation manifests the University's aspiration for all students to find purpose, refine their gifts, and fulfill their calling to renew God's beloved world.

The Rev. Jerry Andrews, PhD, will give the convocation address. Andrews epitomizes the zeal for lifelong learning and service that UD is committed to through its Mission.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Andrews received a bachelor of arts from William Tyndale College, a master of divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, a master of theology from Princeton Theological Seminary, a master of arts from the University of Pittsburgh, and a doctor of philosophy from the University of Chicago. His service to God's church in the world has been manifold. Andrews is now senior pastor emeritus of First Presbyterian Church, San Diego, California, having served as senior pastor there for 14 years. He has served UD's Mission and continues to do so by teaching courses for the master of arts in Reformed theology and as a former member of the seminary council of advisors. Previously, he pastored other congregations, both in Pennsylvania and in the Chicago area, most notably First Presbyterian Church of Glen Ellyn for 17 years.

All University offices, as well as the Charles C. Myers Library and Chlapaty Recreation and Wellness Center, will be closed at 10:30 a.m. so students, faculty, and staff - as one community - may attend convocation. Classes scheduled to begin at 12:15 p.m. will be held.