UIndy inaugurates eighth president

Under the theme "Passport to Possibilities," the University of Indianapolis inaugurated Dr. Beverley J. Pitts as its eighth president March 29, 2006. The 4 p.m. investiture ceremony in the Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center culminated a day of activity that included volunteer service projects in the community and recognition of 10 students awarded international study travel grants.

Dr. Pitts joined the university July 2005 after serving as provost and interim president of Ball State University.

Highlights of the Day:

9 a.m. to noon – "Passport to Service" volunteer work
Where: Various locations around Fountain Square and the university

In keeping with the university motto, "Education for Service," about 200 faculty, staff and student volunteers spent the morning performing community service projects. Dr. Pitts read to children at the Fletcher Place Community Center preschool, 1637 Prospect St., and dropped in on students, faculty and staff as they painted the basement at St. Patrick's Church, 950 Prospect St

Noon to 1:30 p.m. – "Passport to the World" luncheon for international study travel grant winners
Where: Schwitzer Student Center, UIndy campus

Ten UIndy students were awarded $4,000 grants to cover travel and housing costs for learning opportunities at the university's Athens campus or other affiliated overseas locations. At this luncheon, Dr. Pitts hosted the grant recipients and their families.

4 to 5 p.m. – Investiture Ceremony
Where: Ruth Lilly Performance Hall, Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center, UIndy campus

Representatives of the central Indiana community and various campus constituencies brought greetings to President Pitts. Board of Trustees Chair Christel DeHaan performed the rite of investiture, and Dr. Pitts offered her inaugural address. Afterward, the campus community and guests celebrated with a reception in Schwitzer Student Center, featuring refreshments, international hors d'oeuvres, live jazz music and a visual presentation highlighting the university's overseas affiliate campuses.