On Friday, January 12, at 4:00 p.m., Olivet University opened the second half of the 2006-2007 Academic Year with Spring Convocation 2007.

The Convocation is an occasion for parents, faculty, student leaders, and members of the administration and governing board to welcome new scholars into the community. Nearly 70 guests visited Olivet Chapel on the University's main campus in downtown San Francisco, CA to attend this year's event. The ceremony was broadcast live to international viewers.

Faculty members in full regalia gathered at the entrance to the Chapel to form a procession into the sanctuary, accompanied by music from the Jubilee College of Music Ensemble.

The Convocation was presided by University President David James Randolph, who delivered the Convocation Address entitled "The Great Race." Academic Dean and Dean of Olivet Theological College & Seminary (OTCS) Dr. William Lyle Wagner opened the ceremony with a warm welcome and invocation prayer. A series of musical selections and choral devotions conducted by Dean and Professor of Jubilee College of Music Dr. Merrill Smoak segued into the evening's main events.

This year's Spring Convocation featured a speech by The Rev. Andrew T. Lin, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Olivet University, delivered via videoconference. Olivet University community members around the world also participated in the event using videoconference technology. 

OTCS Professor and Director of Middle East Missions Dr. Joseph Ray Tallman provided the benediction followed by a reception at the Presidential Offices of Olivet University, located nearby the main campus building for parents, faculty, students and staff.