Chowan University Convocation

Chowan University had a magnificent ceremony to launch their new name and status yesterday. They were blessed with magnificent weather for the event. The event was well publicized in the community and I arrived early because I wanted to spend some time on the campus talking with students. I was glad I did so. Even as early as I got there, the crowd was already impressive.

Walking In From The Parking Lot

Walking in from the parking lot I was surrounded by students and guests everywhere I looked. You didn't need anyone to direct you where to go. All you had to do was simply join the flow of people heading to the McDowell Columns Building, the imposing edifice that serves as the main building on the beautiful campus in Murfreesboro.

Arriving At The McDowell Columns Building, The Huge Crowd Was Early

There was a tent set up in front of the building for dignitaries to receive their credentials and get oriented. The organization of the event was clear. The officials were very helpful and everyone seemed to know the answers to any questions anyone had.

Dignitaries Receive Badges And Pick Up Program For The Day's Events

After getting copies of the program for the day, and great explanations about the rest of the multi day program, I went into the auditorium to get situated.

The Auditorium In The McDowell Columns Building Was Filled, Including Standing Room Only Along The Back Wall

The crowd was packed.

When the event started it flowed smoothly and was extremely well done, from the opening Processional led by the Chief Faculty Marshall and Mace Bearer, Dr. J Brabban. The invocation was by Mari Wiles, Minister to the University. Scripture Readings for this Baptist University were by Lynwood Grice and Burke Holland. Various introductions and greetings were offered by Danny Moore, Hope Williams, Suzanne Clifton, Preston McElheney III, Lynn Woodard Johnson (Mayor of Murfreesboro), Milton Hollifield Jr., Tara Lynn Bambary, Andrea Eason and Elaine Early Myers.

Faculty Leads Processional And Takes Their Assigned Seats

Music was provided at various points in the program by Ralph Vaughan Williams, John Stafford Smith, James Guthrie, George Warren, Don McAfee, Gregory Parker, Paula Presnell, Annie Elberton Abernathy, Jan Van Der Roost and the Chowan University Wind Ensemble.

Processional Ends With Dignataries On Stage

There was a special ceremony for the "University Citation for Meritorious Service" presented to Paul Camp Marks by University President Christopher White.

Tara Lynn Bambary, President, Student Government Association, Delivers Greetings

Hugh Vincent, Chair of the Chowan University Board of Trustees led the University Investiture with the University Litany, followed by the Prayer of Investiture by Minister Ronald McSwain of Earlys Baptist Church.

President Christopher White Honors Paul Camp Marks For Meritorius Service

The unveiling of the new University Seal and the University Address were provided by University President Chris White.

President Chris White Unveils New Seal

The recessional led us all outside for a Special Fag Ceremony to retire the old college flag and raise the new university flag.

Recessional Music is "Humanos: Hymn Of The Human Rights"

John Tayloe Helps Dignitaries Find Flag Ceremony Positions

Flag Ceremony Begins

Old Flag Is Lowered

New Flag Is Raised

New Flag Flies To Complete The Ceremony

The service ended with everyone taking pictures to commemorate the event, and lunch was provide free by the University to all who attended.

Final Pictures With President White And Dignitaries

The Flag Ceremony did not complete the day's events. Next up in this multi day program for the University was the Community Carnival that followed lunch.

The other events that are coming up include:

Friday - 9/8/2006
Pep Rally @ 8:30 PM
Fireworks @ 9:15 PM

Saturday - 9/9/2006
Tailgating Competition @ 10:00 AM
Pre-Game Show @ 11:30 AM
Football Game @ 12:00 Noon
Dance / Live Band @ 9:00 PM

Sunday - 9/10/2006
Celebration Worship Service @ 3:00 PM

Congratulations to President Christopher White and the Chowan University family. It was a very special day to launch their efforts in celebrating the name change.