The University of Chicago will celebrate the inauguration of Paul Alivisatos as 14th President at 10 a.m. on October 29 at Rockefeller Memorial Chapel.
The ceremony, which will be webcast live, will include words of welcome from faculty, students, staff and alumni representatives from the university community; a poetry reading by Prof. Sirkanth Reddy from his epic “Underworld Lit”; and musical performances with the work of Prof. Augusta Read Thomas. There will also be guest speaker Carol Christ, Chancellor of the University of California, Berkeley; and Prof. Steven Chu of Stanford University, former US Secretary of Energy.
In his inaugural address, Alivisatos will share his vision for the future and how the UChicago community can work together to support and move the university forward. Alivisatos began his term as president on September 1, after being elected to office on February 25.
“This moment in the university’s long history represents an exciting opportunity to work with President Alivisatos to honor the values that make the University of Chicago a unique travel destination, while identifying new opportunities to generate engagement and impact of the university around the world, ”wrote Joseph Neubauer, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, in a communication to the university community. Neubauer will officially introduce Alivisatos as president.
The day begins with the traditional lecturer and delegate procession, starting at the David Rubenstein Forum at 9:30 a.m. together. Under the title “Crescat Scientia; Vita Excolatur ”, the three-minute work was created in honor of the university motto by Thomas, the university professor of composition. The event also includes a performance of Thomas’ Double Helix for two violins and music by the motet choir and the University Pipe Band.
Due to the constant shift in health and safety guidelines, personal attendance at Rockefeller Chapel will be limited, but the ceremony will be webcast. The university will also host watch parties for the campus community at Mandel Hall and Max Palevsky Cinema; More information on these events will be available shortly.
Visit the new inauguration website for more information.
