MEDIA RELEASE__Bluffton University will open the fall semester with its Opening Convocation at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18, in Yoder Recital Hall. Dr. Mark Bourassa, dean of students, Bluffton University, will present “The Challenge of Integrity in a Changing World.” 

Bourassa will explore the importance of integrity in a rapidly changing world and challenge Bluffton students to consider how their values, decisions and actions shape the communities around them. 

Opening Convocation marks the beginning of the university's fall semester. During the ceremony, faculty wearing academic regalia will welcome first-year and transfer students. The name of each new student will be called, with professors presenting honor covenants signed by each student signifying their commitment to Bluffton’s honor code. 

Opening Convocation will also launch Bluffton’s 2026-27 Civic Engagement Theme, “Truth and Integrity in an Age of AI.” Throughout the academic year, students, faculty and staff will explore the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, considering questions of authenticity, ethics, academic integrity, human connection and responsible innovation. Through conversations and experiences across campus, the university community will examine how AI can be used while remaining grounded in Bluffton’s commitment to truth, integrity and the value of human relationships. 

The event is free and open to the public. Forum at Bluffton University provides a public space for interdisciplinary discovery about the personal, local, and global challenges faced by students, faculty, staff and the Bluffton community.