Lane College gathered students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners in the Chambers-McClure Academic Center (CMAC) Auditorium for its Spring Convocation Ceremony, officially marking the start of the Spring 2026 semester. The traditional event served as a moment of reflection and renewal, reaffirming the College’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and service.
Interim President Dr. Donald W. Comer addressed the campus community with a message grounded in unity, accountability, and shared responsibility, framing the semester around student experience and institutional renewal.
“At the center of every decision we make is one guiding question,” Comer said. “How does this improve the student experience.”
He emphasized that the strength and sustainability of the institution depend on shared responsibility across the Lane College community. “Lane College exists because students believe the institution can change their lives, and the College has a responsibility to honor that belief by fostering an environment rooted in strong academics, meaningful relationships, competitive athletics, spiritual grounding, and physical spaces that reflect care and respect.”
The Convocation keynote was delivered by Albert E. Dotson Jr., Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of Bilzin Sumberg, whose personal and professional journey reflects the very aspirations Lane College seeks to cultivate in its students. In introducing Dotson, the College emphasized his path of disciplined excellence, principled leadership, and service grounded in purpose as a living example of what is possible when talent is paired with opportunity, mentorship, and resolve."
Amid recent campus concerns, Dotson addressed students directly. “There is a big difference between complaining for attention and advocating for change with purpose,” he said. “Responsible advocacy means speaking up with clarity and respect, relying on facts rather than assumptions, presenting solutions, not just frustrations, and sustaining your efforts rather than chasing short-lived social media attention.”
He concluded by encouraging students to collaborate constructively with administration. “Use your voice wisely,” Dotson advised. “Partner with leadership. Elevate concerns with substance. Be a part of the solution.”
As the Spring semester begins, Lane College moves forward with optimism and purpose, committed to fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
For more information about upcoming Lane College events and ways to be involved visit www.lanecollege.edu.