Officially installed as the new president of Northeastern Illinois University, Dr. Sharon K. Hahs was presented with the Presidential Stole, Orb and Medallion, symbolically accepting the role she has filled since last semester. An international group of delegates included students, alumni and staff, as well as, members from the military, religious, and corporate communities. The venue was moved from the University Commons to the auditorium due to weather considerations but it did not dampen the mood.
“The inauguration was just phenomenal. It was great. I was impressed with all the outside, important figures, government figures, some people from different countries, and of course the number of faculty out there was phenomenal, too,” Frank Perino, associate professor of education, told the Independent.
The ceremony gave a hopeful light to many members of the university, but particularly to new president Hahs. “I feel wonderful,” Hahs said. “It was a beautiful ceremony and it bodes well for the future.”
SGA President Keenan Arnold had this to say about the new President, “As a student I’ve never been a part of an installation service so it was very awe-inspiring. As President of SGA, it’s inspiring again to see Dr. Hahs talking about stewardship and embracing diversity and I look forward to working with her.”
Augustine Solanki, administrative assistant for the music department deftly summed up the speech by saying, “It was very inspiring, the message from Dr. Hahs’ speech was very, very inspiring.”
The inauguration was followed by a reception in the cafeteria which featured free food and music from the NEIU Jazz Ensemble.