Tyler Boydston
Managing Editor
Cameron University has officially installed its 17th president.
The installation of Dr. John McArthur took place 4 p.m. Oct. 23 in the Aggie Gym.
Student representatives from each department carried gonfalons out to the floor on either side of the stage while Dr. Mike Dunn, Chair of the Faculty Senate, held the university mace.
Dr. Ronna Vanderslice, Vice President for Academic Affairs, welcomed the Platform Party of guests who gave salutations to President McArthur.
The platform’s first speakers were President for the Cameron University Alumni Association Jessica Champagne, followed by Academic Services Coordinator Lani Malcolm and Chair of the CU Faculty Senate Dr. Michael Dunn.
After Dunn’s speech, Student Government Association President Kevin Stieb spoke to McArthur and the crowd.
Stieb said McArthur is unlike other administrators because of his background as a professor.
“President McArthur was, and still is, a professor at heart,” Stieb said. “He has seen the aspects of the classroom that many administrators just have not. His passion for creating an inspirational learning environment and leading the classroom gives me hope for our university.”
Following Stieb, Dr. Glen Johnson, Chancellor of the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, joined the platform in welcoming McArthur. Johnson discussed the responsibilities of leaders in modern educational institutions.
“Times like we’re in today require leaders with initiative and with vision, leaders who can effectively steer the university ship to accomplish its mission and goals,” Johnson said. “President McArthur, we’re here today because we believe you are that kind of leader, and you have our complete support and confidence as you begin your presidency.”
After Johnson’s remarks, Chair of the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents Richard Dunning bestowed the presidential medallion and the mace, the symbols of the institution, to McArthur. The presidential medallion was made specifically for McArthur’s installation.
Following the presentation of the medallion, McArthur gave his inaugural address to the crowd, which consisted of students, faculty and community members. McArthur accepted the presidency and thanked those in attendance.
“I accept the charge of office presented today, and I commit to you my most sincere efforts to perform on the highest level to merit the trust and faith you have placed in me with this appointment,” McArthur said. “I thank each of you for your support of this institution and commitment to work together to make Cameron University the best institution possible for our community, our current students and the students who have yet to enter our classrooms.”
McArthur said after his first four months as acting president of CU, the six core values of the university have become increasingly more valid.
“After a blindingly fast four months of meetings, meals, more meals, listening sessions and other interactions with our campus and community members, I can attest to the consistency of the message that clearly affirms to me our institutional core values,” McArthur said. “These areas of focus are the keys to meeting our institutional goals to make Cameron University the university of choice for the educational, cultural and economic advancement of southwest Oklahoma and the surrounding region.”
Before the close of his speech, McArthur emphasized his beliefs in helping students reach graduation and assisting them in finding success beyond the classroom.
“We are here to improve student learning and student success inside and outside of the classroom.”