Community, Creativity, Collaboration, and Celebration: A Presidential Inauguration Transforms a Campus
From the Nominator
In a remarkable fusion of tradition, creativity, and innovation, Ohio Wesleyan University transformed the inauguration of our 17th President Matt vandenBerg into a vibrant campus-wide celebration. Our main goal was to mirror the energetic personality of our new leader with events reflecting his vision and excitement for OWU. For this April 2024 celebration, our diverse inauguration team carefully crafted a week-long experience ensuring every constituent felt integral, not just invited. Events ranged from a "Something is Brewing at OWU" kick-off featuring custom coffee drinks to interactive displays where students shared their vision for OWU's future under President vandenBerg's leadership. With surprise announcements and thoughtfully designed engagement opportunities, we created meaningful connections across our entire campus community. The inauguration sparked genuine excitement and set new standards for institutional celebrations. By blending academic excellence, creative expression, and authentic inclusion, we created an experience that resonated with our diverse campus family and established a foundation for our shared future. The week strategically unveiled several initiatives that will shape our institution's future: A news conference spotlighted our revitalized partnership with Columbus State Community College, establishing unprecedented transfer pathways and shared resources for students. A historic signing ceremony for our agreement with Claflin University, a prestigious historically Black university, created joint academic programs and cultural exchanges that will enrich both institutions. And an announcement of the Delaware Promise Scholarship, a commitment guaranteeing tuition support for qualified local students drew standing ovations as families realized new educational possibilities were within reach.
From the Judges
This entry showcases an excellent model for reimagining traditional university inaugurations. The entire week's programming highlighted unique opportunities to engage with the campus community and celebrate new initiatives instead of just the new president. The collaboration across campus and the focus on inclusivity are particularly noteworthy.