The University marks the beginning of each academic year with Opening Exercises. The annual interfaith service includes an address by President Christopher Eisgruber, and the recognition of academic achievements of undergraduate students.

First-year students will line up on Cannon Green with classmates in their residential college and march through the FitzRandolph Gate, onto Front Campus, officially entering campus to start their undergraduate experience. They will be joined by Trustees, faculty, and administrators who process in academic regalia.