UNCP Convocation Inspires New Braves to Share Their Stories, Chase Their Dreams
Twin brothers David and Adam Rogers traveled six hours from their home in Franklin, N.C., to join UNC Pembroke’s Class of 2029, bringing with them top-3A state rankings in pole vault and a shared excitement for the road ahead.
Recruited for track and field, they chose UNCP for its “rich history” and community outreach opportunities. David will study child psychology, focusing on foster care, while Adam plans to major in education with a passion for early American history.
The Rogers brothers were among nearly 1,000 first-year students who gathered at Givens Performing Arts Center for New Student Convocation, where they were welcomed into the university community to embark on their academic journeys.
Cummings emphasized UNCP’s strong commitment to student success, reminding new Braves that “you can get there from here” and that challenges are a natural part of the journey. Drawing from the university’s resilience through hurricanes and a global pandemic, he urged students to stay focused, work hard and use their time wisely.
Cummings assured the Class of 2029 during his closing remarks: “We are here for your success. You will succeed.”
"Today marks the beginning of an incredible turning point in your life journey, and First Lady Rebecca and I are honored to be part of your earliest experiences at your university home"
In her keynote address, attorney Erin Locklear encouraged students to embrace “the power of storytelling” as a pathway to connection, growth and understanding. She shared how, as a Lumbee woman navigating college, telling her own story and listening to others helped her build bridges across differences.
“Understanding their stories will help you find connection even when the commonality isn’t obvious,” said Locklear, a Fairmont native who serves as general counsel for the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. “There is power in sharing your story in a vulnerable way and in truly hearing someone else’s story.”
Locklear reminded students that UNCP has a unique story rooted in resilience and inclusion, and they are now part of it: “You are a part of UNCP’s story, and it is a part of your story.”
She encouraged students to connect with professors, campus leaders, staff, classmates and those they might overlook. Her practical advice included protecting your peace, taking up space in academic and campus life and not being afraid to ask for help.
“Congratulations on your many accomplishments so far to get to where you are today, and I hope you all succeed in the world,” Locklear said.
Across campus, first-year students shared a mix of anticipation and jitters.
“I have a feeling I’m going to meet a lot of new people and make many new friends,” said Laurinburg’s Lucas Norton, a music education major and member of the Spirit of the Carolinas marching band.
The transition is daunting but motivating for Leiana Locklear, a first-generation student in the Summer Bridge program. “I’m scared… this is something I’ve never experienced,” she said. “I’m doing everything by myself. The keynote speaker's message gave me a lot of motivation,” said Locklear, also a Pembroke native.
Other newcomers include Marissa Dixon, who said UNCP “felt like home,” and computer science major Bradley Little, eager to connect with his Lumbee heritage while working toward a computer science degree. Anthony Pabon of Fayetteville hopes to become a high school social studies teacher. Kenia McLaurin wants to study agriculture to “provide for my family.” At the same time, Florence, S.C., native Ayden Phillips was drawn to UNCP for its standalone cybersecurity program and smaller classes, which he says will allow personal connections with his professors.
International student Johanna Dehmel, from Germany, looks forward to improving her English while studying sports and physical education. Lumberton’s Armony Smith is pursuing nursing with dreams of becoming a travel NICU nurse. Altar Strickland, an accounting major, chose UNC Pembroke following in the footsteps of her mother, a BraveNation graduate.
With classes now underway, the newest Braves are already beginning to write the first chapter of their UNCP story.