University Day & Inauguration 2.0

University Day

University Events and Programs (UEP) helped to foster and strengthen the tradition of University Day by combining the inauguration of President Mark W. Huddleston with two other major events: Academic Convocation and the annual University Day Picnic and student activities fair.

Inauguration 2.0

A university presidential inauguration is an opportunity for an institution to celebrate its history and lay a foundation for the future. Traditional pomp and circumstance celebrate such occasions. However, in recent years, these occasions have been marked by indulgence and extravagance.

In recognition of our role as a leader in the field of sustainability, the inauguration of President Huddleston was conceived with the theme of “Responsible. Resourceful. Sustainable.” Inauguration 2.0 was implemented September 16, 2009, as the first-in-the-nation green installation of a university president. Through this event, the University provided a strong example for peer institutions and garnered national media coverage. For example, the president’s inaugural address was featured on the big screen in New York City’s Time Square.

Green initiatives included:

  • Elimination of printed materials in favor of e-communications.
  • Elimination of the need for extensive travel by traditional guests through Live Web streaming of the event.
  • Replacement of the annual State of the University address with the Inaugural Address resulting in a net zero increase in cost and use of resources.

Inauguration 2.0 Web site
Video
Inauguration Photo Gallery
Convocation Photo Gallery
Picnic and Student Activities Fair Photo Gallery