The Inauguration Planning Committee offers these FAQs to better assist you with understanding the ceremony related to a presidential investiture, as well as planning your attendance.
How will Tuskegee University celebrate the inauguration of its ninth president, Dr. Charlotte P. Morris?
The university will host several events on December 3, 2022, to mark the inauguration of Dr. Morris. These will include her investiture ceremony on Saturday, December 3. Other events on Dec. 3 will include a recception and a holiday scholarship gala. On Sunday, December 4, you are invited to the Ecumenical Service at 10 a.m. and to the Christmas Concert at 6 p.m., both at the Tuskegee University Chapel.
Are Tuskegee University’s inaugural events open to the public?
Students, alumni, employees, supporters and friends are invited to attend the investiture ceremony. While the investiture ceremony on December 3 is a free, general-admission event, other events — such as Saturday’s gala — will require a purchased ticket.
When and where is the inaugural installation ceremony?
The investiture ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 3, beginning at 10 a.m. in the Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Arena. The ceremony, or “investiture,” will include remarks by Dr. Morris, her special guests, visiting dignitaries, as well as musical performances that underscore her vision and theme for her presidency. It will also include ceremonial elements like a procession of delegates from other universities, which typically includes an institution’s president or other high-ranking administrator.
Who may attend the inauguration ceremony?
All students, alumni, employees, supporters and friends are welcome to attend. Some events are ticketed. Special guests, university and organizational delegates, and program participants will be notified in advance regarding reserved seating, and if appropriate, required attire such as academic regalia.
Why are university presidential inaugurations important?
Universities hold inaugurations to accomplish several goals. The occasion formally invests leadership of the institution in its new president, and inaugural events allow the university’s stakeholders to become better acquainted with the president and her vision. It also gives the institution an opportunity to reaffirm historic commitments, to rally the academic community around the president, and to heighten institutional visibility.
The term “inauguration,” when used in a university setting, refers to a series of events planned in celebration of the installation of a new president. The “installation” is the actual moment the new president assumes the insignia of office, which for Tuskegee University is the medallion worn by the president when he or she appears in academic regalia. The ceremony itself is referred to as an “investiture.”
Who is responsible for planning the presidential inauguration?
To plan the inaugural activities, the university has commissioned a planning committee composed of representatives of its various constituencies, including employees, administrators, students and alumni. Each of these constituencies will have a role in the installation ceremony.
What factors did the planning committee consider when scheduling the dates and locations for the president’s inaugural events?
It is common for a university to delay the inauguration of its president until six to 12 months after his or her appointment.
The scheduling of the inaugural events required committee members, university administrators and trustees to consider standing events on the university’s calendar, traditionally observed holidays, and the availability of invited ceremony participants, speakers and the president’s family. Other factors influenced the location of elements of the inauguration. These included accommodations, as well as the need for a larger space for Saturday’s gala due to its planned size and scope.
How should media outlets request media credentials?
Official media representatives wishing to report on elements of Tuskegee’s inaugural weekend events should contact Thonnia Lee, Senior Director of Communications, Public Relations and Marketing, at tlee@tuskegee.edu or 334.724.4553 for media credentials.
What if I have additional questions?
The inauguration website at www.tuskegee.edu/inauguration will provide additional information and specific details. If the website does not answer your questions, please email cminauguration@tuskegee.edu.