While graduation serves as an exit ceremony for FIU grads, the Freshman Convocation is a University tradition, a formal welcome for freshmen and their families and friends, to the Panther family. This year, Kandys Temes was one of the four students selected to represent the 4,500 incoming freshmen expected to graduate in 2018. The ceremony took place on Sunday, August 24 in the U.S. Century Bank Arena at FIU’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus (MMC). The event was hosted by the University President, Provost, and distinguished faculty and staff.

“Kandys was selected to represent her class and carry the Torch of Knowledge because she embodies FIU’s Worlds Ahead qualities: academic excellence, community engagement through volunteerism, and a commitment to advance,” stated Valerie Morgan, assistant dean of undergraduate education.

“Of every incoming freshman at FIU, I was chosen to be one of the four distinguished enough to take part in such a remarkable event. I am filled with gratitude for everything FIU has brought my way in such a short time. I cannot wait to see what the next four years have in store for me. I am proud to be a Golden Panther and call FIU my home,” said Temes.

This past summer, Kandys was also selected as one of five incoming Hospitality Management students to be recognized as Carnival Gold Scholars at FIU in the program’s first year.