According to Groucho Marx, "outside of a dog - a book is man's best friend." This summer, let UHD introduce you to your new best friend.

In August, UHD will welcome the newest Gators to the University by hosting the annual UHD Freshman Convocation - the ceremonial beginning of a new academic year. More than 1,000 freshmen will read the best-selling novel The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon and then come together at Convocation to discuss the book and how it relates to the college life.

Alumni volunteers are needed to partner with UHD faculty and staff to engage in the book discussion and help the new students acclimate to university life. Alumni will be asked to read the novel and participate in a discussion prior to Convocation. If you are interested in participating, please join us on the dates listed below.

Book Discussion and Convocation Preparation: Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the UHD Coffeehouse on the third floor of the Academic Building

UHD Freshman Convocation: Saturday, Aug. 24, from 8 a.m. to noon in the Robertson Auditorium.

If you would like to read the book and need a copy, please contact Jaha Williams at 713-221-8184 or williamsjah@uhd.edu or Liza Alonzo at 713-221-8682 or alonzol@uhd.edu. If you do not have time to read the book but want to participate, Cliff Notes can be provided or you can serve as a volunteer on Saturday, Aug. 24.

We need your help! RSVP to participate today.

Freshman Convocation 2012