VCU Presidential Inauguration Set for Friday

By Tom Gresham

Michael Rao, Ph.D., will be inaugurated as Virginia Commonwealth University’s fifth president in a ceremony on Friday on the university’s campus.

The inauguration ceremony will be held on Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at the VCU Siegel Center, 1200 W. Broad St. The ceremony is open to students, faculty, staff, alumni and invited guests.

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan will deliver the inaugural address. Other featured speakers include Rao; Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell; Ashley Cox of the VCU Student Leadership Council; and David Fauri, president of the VCU Faculty Senate.

VCU will launch a new tradition at the ceremony, recognizing the inaugural class of “University Scholars,” current undergraduate students who have completed 54-84 credits and attained outstanding academic achievement. The program also will highlight “Quest for Distinction,” VCU’s new strategic plan.

Media credentials are required to attend the event. The credentials can be obtained from VCU Communications and Public Relations during business hours, starting Wednesday, Oct. 12, at 827 W. Franklin St., room 104, or from a staff member at the Harrison Street entrance of the Siegel Center on the day of the ceremony. Proof of media affiliation is required to receive credentials. Media will be seated on the arena floor in front of sections 15/16.

For more information about the inauguration activities, visit www.2011inauguration.vcu.edu/, which includes a schedule of inauguration-related events.