New University of Texas at Dallas students received a formal welcome to campus Aug. 20 at University Convocation, where they heard about student life from faculty and other University leaders. “The students are why we’re here,” said Dr. Inga H. Musselman, vice president for academic affairs, provost and the Cecil H. Green Distinguished Chair of Academic Leadership. She encouraged students to be inquisitive, persistent and positive as they begin the new academic year. “Take a chance; become an explorer.”UTD President Richard C. Benson, the Eugene McDermott Distinguished University Chair of Leadership, said University leaders strive to give students great learning opportunities beyond the classrooms and research labs. The ceremony also included student speakers — cognitive science senior Srivani Edupuganti, president of Student Government; and business analytics graduate student Megha Hooli, president of the Graduate Student Assembly.