SHERMAN, TEXAS —Austin College officially began its 160th academic year September 1 with Opening Convocation in Wynne Chapel. Henry Winkler, actor, director, producer, and author, presented the convocation address to the entering Class of 2012, the upcoming graduating Class of 2009, faculty, staff, and guests.
Winkler’s address featured his well-known wit and charisma as he discussed his childhood experiences and overcoming dyslexia. He read an excerpt from his children’s book series, Hank Zipzer, The World’s Greatest Underachiever, which is based on his own childhood struggles with dyslexia.
He spoke to students about moving beyond the shame and embarrassment of his learning challenge to embrace it as a source of strength that has served him well in life. “I realized maybe I would never have been able to achieve what I achieved if I didn’t have the battle, the hill I constantly had to climb,” Winkler said.
Winkler encouraged students to make the most of themselves – and left them three reason to do so: because they have only one chance, one lifetime, because doing so equips them to serve others, and because as the best they can be they will be able to assist those who are most vulnerable in society, particularly children. “There are things to be done, needs to be met, and hurts to be healed, and if you do not do your part something very important will remain undone forever,” Winkler said.
Winkler remains best known as the television icon “The Fonz” on the 1970s sitcom Happy Days, though he has since added many television, film, and Broadway acting and directing projects to his credits. He also has emerged as a distinguished speaker, humanitarian, author, and advocate of young people and education. Austin College awarded Winkler an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree in 2002.
Nearly 900 attended the ceremony to open the school year. George Diggs, professor of biology, led the academic procession as college marshal. Following welcoming remarks from Austin College President Oscar C. Page, Michael Imhoff, vice president for Academic Affairs, conducted the investiture of the Class of 2012, and alumni board president and 1967 graduate Mike Nurre presented the 2012 banner to the freshman class. Classes began September 2 for Austin College students, including the 319 freshmen entering college for the first time.
Austin College is a leading national independent liberal arts college located just north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas. Founded in 1849, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original charter and name, the college is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA). Recognized nationally for academic excellence in the areas of international education, pre-professional training, and leadership studies, Austin College is one of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges that Change Lives.