Singletary Center for the Arts

Transcription

CARL NATHE: “Good afternoon and welcome inside the Singletary Center for the Arts here on the campus of the University of Kentucky in Lexington, and we welcome you to the Investiture Ceremony. We’re going to have some interviews leading up to the investiture of the twelfth president of the University of Kentucky, Dr. Eli Capilouto. We welcome you whether you’re joining us from around campus, around the Commonwealth or around the world for that matter. Our first interview guest – we’re going to ask her to join us right now – Dr. Holly Swanson. Dr. Swanson is a faculty member in the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in the department of… molecular biology?” HOLLY SWANSON: “Molecular and biomedical pharmacology.” CARL NATHE: “Alright, in the College of Medicine. Well said. But also serves as chair of the University Senate Council which is an important post. And Holly – just the excitement of this day – it doesn’t happen that often.” HOLLY SWANSON: “No, probably about every ten years or so.” CARL NATHE: “And what about it? How is the faculty feeling as they lead up to the occasion?” HOLLY SWANSON: “We really look forward to the change and thinking about what kinds of changes lie ahead is fun to think about. And we look for improvement and that’s mostly what we’re thinking about.” CARL NATHE: “Now explain to us for a moment what the University Senate does and what you do as chair.” HOLLY SWANSON: “As chair my main job is to oversee the whole faculty governance side—our academic programs and ensure that the academics of the university is of high quality. CARL NATHE: And what about the concept that people here talk about the university, that those outside the university and even some inside the university probably don’t quite understand. When we talk about shared governance, what does that mean? HOLLY SWANSON: Shared governance is unique to this organization as opposed to others. And what that means is that the faculty wants to be involved early in the decision making process. We don’t want something to be handed down to us on high. We want to participate in those decisions. CARL NATHE: And as far as when you have the senate council getting together, how often do you meet? HOLLY SWANSON: We meet every Monday, 3-5. CARL NATHE: Okay, and then you have the bigger picture as far as, you take things to the entire faculty or consider from the entire faculty and from individual departments? HOLLY SWANSON: Yes. Once a month we meet with the full senate. The senate is represented by all of the colleges. All of the 18 colleges elect senators to represent them. CARL NATHE: How do you have time to do this and be a faculty member in a very busy department in a vey, I would say challenging, subject area? HOLLY SWANSON: I’m sometimes sleep-challenged. CARL NATHE: Well, listen. We wish you all the best. Are you-- Your early impressions of Dr. Capilouto, I should ask. HOLLY SWANSON: I’m really excited about Eli Capilouto. What he’s really demonstrated to us is that he’s someone who listens very well. And what he told me when we first met, that he would work hard to gain our trust, and I believe that. CARL NATHE: Very good. Thank you Dr. Holly Swanson. We’ll let you make your way over to the ceremony. Holly will be part of the processional in when the investiture of the new president of the University of Kentucky formally begins in just a few minutes. As we hear the University of Kentucky Wind Ensemble warming up behind us, we ask Dr. Robert Mock to join us. Dr. Mock, who is now Vice President for Student Affairs here at the University of Kentucky and prior to joining us, he was the Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs at the University of Arkansas’ main campus in Fayetteville. You’re now in your second year here. First of all, so far so good in Lexington? ROBERT MOCK: So far so good. Me and my family have adjusted well to this wonderful community; we love this particular campus and the city. CARL NATHE: What attracted you to UK, because you had a nice job at the University of Arkansas—I know you’re a driven guy, you like to move forward as anybody would do, but you had a nice thing going there at Arkansas. What prompted you to come to UK? ROBERT MOCK: Well the opportunity to be vice president at big blue U. It really means a lot me. I’m a big basketball fan, I love what this organization has to offer, and I wanted to be a part of something special. And the University of Kentucky has been everything I expected and more. CARL NATHE: Vice President for Student Affairs—that’s an all-encompassing term. But I guess as far as when things are happening with students, which after all, without students and without faculty and without staff we don’t have a university, but it all starts with students. ROBERT MOCK: It absolutely does. We are proud of the 450 registered student organizations we have here on campus. This past weekend we took a group of eight students to the MLK memorial, commemoration memorial in Washington D.C., and so we try to be very student-focused here at the University of Kentucky. CARL NATHE: Your early impressions thus far of Dr. Eli Capilouto who will be installed today officially as the twelfth president? ROBERT MOCK: Early impressions? He’s doing a wonderful job so far. I’ll tell you, it’s very exciting to have him here and join our organization. One of the things that I really like about him is he’s very transparent. And he’s a collaborator. He brings several people to the table and they come up with some wonderful ideas and solutions to some of our issues. CARL NATHE: Now as you look at the University of Kentucky going forward, because I know I’ve had private conversations with you, your are an optimistic sort. In other words, there’s some pretty high aspirations for this place. But you welcome that kind of a challenge, don’t you? ROBERT MOCK: Absolutely. I mean, we look forward to some wonderful opportunities in our future, and we believe that we have the right leader to take us in the right direction. One of the things he talked about in terms of being inclusive is getting students involved, and that really make me feel good to know that he is going to bring students to the table, as well as faculty and staff. CARL NATHE: As Vice President of Student Affairs, we know that for the most part, our students behave themselves well all the time and so forth, but I guess I ‘d be remiss if I didn’t ask you: What’s the best part of your job, and maybe what’s a challenging part of the job, a tough part of the job? ROBER MOCK: Well one of the toughest things, to be quite honest, which I’m not proud of is having to deal with students when they pass away. You know, and so it’s never a good thing to go to a funeral and to see a grieving parent having lost a loved one. And so the truth of the matter is we have to deal with that from time to time. But one of the wonderful things about my job is graduation. Commencement—that’s the day, that’s the main reason everyone came here together. It’s to see their child go across that stage with that cap and gown on, and launching them off into a new and wonderful career. CARL NATHE: Alright. Dr. Robert Mock, Vice President of Student Affairs here at the University. Thank you very much. ROBERT MOCK: Thank you. CARL NATHE: And we hope you enjoy the ceremony. And next up, we’re going to be joined by one of our students here at the University of Kentucky. This university, proud to have some 28,000 students, and we welcome in the Vice President for Student Government here at the University of Kentucky, Nikki Hurt. And Nikki, I understand you hail from right here in Lexington? NIKKI HURT: Yes sir. My parents actually live about eight minutes from campus so I was born and raised to be a Wildcat fan. CARL NATHE: And where did you go to high school? NIKKI HURT: I graduated from Tates Creek in 2008. CARL NATHE: And what year are you now at the University of Kentucky, and what’s your major? NIKKI HURT: I am a senior majoring in agricultural biotechnology in the College of Agriculture. CARL NATHE: Now that’s a wonderful program. It’s a challenging program, but what might that be preparing you for down the road? What are you thinking about? NIKKI HURT: Well right now, I’m currently applying for my masters in public health, specifically health policy, so agricultural biotechnology was great because it gave me the science background and student government kind of helped me prepare for the policy aspect of it. CARL NATHE: Now you’re very busy as a student with that kind of a major and then you add on top you’re vice president of Student Government, along with President Micah Fielden, but how did you get involved in Student Government and what drove you to do so? NIKKI HURT: I actually became involved with Student Government my freshman year through the Leadership Development Program, and through that I became involved with Senate and through my time with Senate I actually gained a passion for student leadership. So that correlated well into the executive aspect of Student Government where I’m able to take my office and serve the student body as a whole. CARL NATHE: And what are you learning from being involved in Student Government and be as Vice President? NIKKI HURT: So many things. I think I’ve learned so much more – little idiosyncrasies about the university, about the student body, but really just how to work together and how well the university as a whole depends on different aspects, and that’s been a huge rewarding experience for me. CARL NATHE: I know another thing you’re involved in because last night I saw you at the pep rally on campus and you were introduced. You’re part of the homecoming royalty. There are five young men and women, couples, although you’re not necessarily “couples” but for this occasion you are, and you are representing what organization? NIKKI HURT: Student Government. CARL NATHE: Okay, Student Government. And she is going to be out there on the field at halftime when the king and queen…we hope it’s you but I don’t want to prejudice the case. NIKKI HURT: Thank you! CARL NATHE: But as far as homecoming week, what does that mean to you? NIKKI HURT: Homecoming to me just kind of correlates the tradition of the university. Our university’s been around for nearly 150 years and there’s so many wonderful aspects and homecoming just brings everyone together who’s had a part in that back to campus and back to really showing us what the nature of the University of Kentucky is all about. CARL NATHE: What are your early impressions of Dr. Eli Capilouto? NIKKI HURT: I really respect Dr. Capilouto, and I’m so glad we’re able to have him at this university. I met him for the first time this summer when he actually came to the Student Government office to have a meeting with Micah and I, and at that time he really did show us that students are first. He says that very often, and I’ve never seen anything that contradicts that statement. So I think we’re very lucky to have him here. I’m very excited to be here today. CARL NATHE: Nikki Hurt, Vice President of Student Government, University of Kentucky. Thank you and enjoy the ceremony. NIKKI HURT: Thank you very much. CARL NATHE: Appreciate it. And we’ve got one more special guest as we approach the time when we’re going to actually have the University of Kentucky wind ensemble will be performing some pre-Investiture music, and then we’re going to have the formal ceremony starting and four o’clock so stay with us right here as you watch the interviews leading up to the Investiture. I’m joined now by Dean Terry Birdwistell. Dr. Terry Birdwistell is Dean of Libraries here at the University of Kentucky. He has had a long career here, and now I guess in your second year is it as Dean of Libraries? TERRY BIRDWISTELL: Finishing, uh…beginning the second year, that’s correct. CARL NATHE: Okay. TERRY BIRDWISTELL: I was getting a little confused. (LAUGHTER) CARL NATHE: Well you have a lot to keep tract of. Terry Birdwistell’s a modest guy but he knows probably as much or more about the history of the University of Kentucky and its presidents than anybody on the face of the earth. And not to give you a big head, but first of all on this day, we’re reminded that this doesn’t happen very often. This is number twelve. TERRY BIRDWISTELL: Right, it’s very rare in the history of this university, in part because we’ve had several long-serving presidents. And it’s also interesting that two of our presidents served a very short time, one for a little over a year and one for three years, so if they’d served out a regular term we’d even have fewer of these. CARL NATHE: Now let’s go back to the history. As we say, almost 150 years at the University of Kentucky. Our founding date is 1865. A fellow by the name of Boman was actually the founder of the university but he was not technically the first president. TERRY BIRDWISTELL: He wasn’t. He was more like the Chair of the Board, but, you know, he’s probably one of the figures in Kentucky history that doesn’t get enough credit for what he did. He was from Harrodsburg and he actually - at the end of the civil war, with the passage of the Morril Act which created the land grants - he was a very visionary person who put together private colleges - what had been Transylvania University, a private college in Harrodsburg, Merds the A&M College, and set up Kentucky University. The first campuses were at the current campus of Transy and over at Woodland Park. And he actually lived in Henry Clay’s home, and the first agricultural farm for UK was Ashland, Henry Clay’s estate. CARL NATHE: Now, I’ve been reading online on our UKnow website, which is www.uky.edu/uknow, but Whitney Hale and Kody Kaiser and Amy Jones have been putting some pieces together. They did some interviewing with you, and one of the things you mentioned was land grant. That’s always been important to presidents here at the university, that this is a land grant university. TERRY BIRDWISTELL: Well, it really is, and I think what attracts people like President Capilouto to Kentucky is the fact that we’re the land grant, we have a law school, we have a medical school, and you know, the large ag college of course and a very vibrant liberal arts program. And so I think that the other part of that is that each president has understood how important this university is to the state of Kentucky, and so they’ve put together programs and made sure that the university not only educates our young people and graduate students, but also there’s a tremendous service part of the state of Kentucky. CARL NATHE: Now you are an oral historian and have been a great starter in underpinning of the oral history program of the University of Kentucky, which is nationally, actually renowned around the world with scholars, but in terms of former presidents that you’ve had the chance to visit with, and I know by terms of some of these interviews you do they don’t become public until after the presidents pass, is that right? TERRY BIRDWISTELL: That’s correct. Most of them are restricted during their lifetime. The first president I interviewed was Frank Dickey, and I’ve interviewed most of the presidents since then. As a matter of fact, I had the opportunity to spend 80 hours of interviewing with Otis Singletary, and we’re of course in the fine building the Singletary Center of the Arts that’s named for him. I also had time to spend with him when we weren’t doing interviews and I learned so much. There’s so much wisdom to be learned from these presidents and former presidents because they have a rather unique experience in guiding these very complex universities. CARL NATHE: We’ve just got a minute or so remaining, but Terry I wanted to ask you as far as the history of the university goes and Dr. Capilouto, I think one thing that stands out no matter who the president is you don’t have to wait very long until there are some big challenges and big decisions. And it’s kind of like I guess to paraphrase Harry Truman, President of the United States, but when you’re president of the University of Kentucky the buck stops there, doesn’t it? TERRY BIRDWISTELL: It really does, and as I said it’s a complex organization. There are many challenges and there are many needs out there. And I think when President Capilouto arrived, went across the state, he got the sense that Kentuckians depend on this university in more ways than most people can really imagine. And so from the day one, from the day you start, you know, you have to really set your priorities, look for the resources to keep these programs going because as I said earlier, they not only educate our young Kentuckians, but also are a driving force in the economic engine of this state and also the safety nets of this state in terms of what we do in medicine, what we do in social work and so many other areas. CARL NATHE: You mentioned Dr. Singletary earlier, and I’m going to give myself a quick quiz but the first president of the university was President Patterson. He was followed by President Barker. TERRY BIRDWISTELL: That’s correct. CARL NATHE: Then the long tenure of Frank McVey, from 1917 to 1940. Then Herman Donovan, Frank Dickey, then we had John Oswold… TERRY BIRDWISTELL: That’s correct. CARL NATHE: John Oswold for about five years then Ab Kirwan… TERRY BIRDWISTELL: …was an interim president and at the last board meeting, Happy Chandler made a motion to make him president. CARL NATHE: So he was officially president, served for about one year. TERRY BIRDWISTELL: Mmhmmm. CARL NATHE: Then we had the long rain of Otis Singletary, 18 years… TERRY BIRDWISTELL: That’s correct. CARL NATHE: David Roselle came in with high hopes. There were some other things politically and the basketball scandal, which kind of put him in a tough spot and he went on to have a great career at the University of Delaware but he served 2.5 years. And then Charles Wethington. TERRY BIRDWISTELL: Yes, Charles Wethington served until Lee Todd came in 2001. CARL NATHE: Alright, and then Lee Todd for the last ten years and now a new president, Dr. Eli Capilouto. And your early impressions – are you optimistic? TERRY BIRDWISTELL: I think Eli Capilouto is a genuinely nice person. And I think he’s embraced the mission of this university. He’s embraced the state and I have high hopes for him. CARL NATHE: Thank you Dr. Terry Birdwistell, Dean of UK Libraries. That music from the wind ensemble means it’s time to wrap it up. So enjoy the Investiture of the twelfth president of the University of Kentucky, Dr. Eli Capilouto. ORATOR: “Ladies and Gentlemen, the academic procession for the Investiture of the Twelfth President of the University of Kentucky is about to begin.” The University Marshal enters from Stage Right and proceeds to the Center of the stage in front of the floral at the Center Lectern. Dr. Chan raises the University Mace to signal the start of the procession, symbolic of the unity and authority of the University and its faculty. ORATOR: “The Academic Processional of the faculty of the University of Kentucky will now begin. The Academic Processional is led by members of the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees, and the Provost, as the chief academic officer of the institution. Following are the deans of the academic colleges, in alphabetical order: Agriculture, Arts and Sciences, Business and Economics, Communications and Information Studies, Dentistry, Design, The Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce, Education, Engineering, Fine Arts, The Graduate School, Health Sciences, Law, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, The Martin School of Public Policy and Administration, Social Work, and Undergraduate Education. The deans of the colleges are followed by the faculty of the college.” The processional music resumes and the faculty advance from both sides of the Concert Hall, feeding into Rows B and BB (the first two rows are empty for cameras and photographers). V.I.P seating is in rows CC, D, E, F seats 1-15 or more and will be ribboned off). After the faculty all enter the rows, the music stops. ORATOR: “Please rise for the entrance of President Eli Capilouto, Board of Trustees Chairman Britt Brockman and the members of the Platform Party. Following the President and Chair of the Board of Trustees are former Presidents of the University of Kentucky, representatives from the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, Presidents of Kentucky Colleges and Universities, and the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities, along with the University officials and representatives participating in the investiture ceremony. Please remain standing through the singing of the University of Kentucky Alma Mater” ORATOR: “Ladies and Gentlemen, under the direction of Dr. Jefferson Johnson, Professor and Director of Choral Activities in the School of Music, College of Fine Arts, the University Chorale will perform the University of Kentucky Alma Mater.” University Chorale performs “Alma Mater.” ORATOR: “Thank you. You may be seated. As we begin today’s Investiture Ceremony, members of the University Community bring greetings to Dr. Capilouto on behalf of the UK Board of Trustees, students, alumni and faculty. Dr. Britt Brockman, Chair of the UK Board of Trustees.” APPLAUSE Dr. Brockman moves to the center lectern and delivers greetings on behalf of the Board of Trustees. BRITT BROCKMAN: “On behalf of the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees, it is my honor to welcome all of you to a proud and important day in the history of this institution - the investiture of UK's 12th president, Dr. Eli Capilouto. Only a handful of times in our institution's nearly 150-year history have we, as a university community, officially installed a president. It is, therefore, an appropriate moment to reflect on our rich history, our enduring and steadfast commitment to education, to boundary-breaking research and discovery, and to deep and engaged service on behalf of the Commonwealth. After 150 years, it is abundantly clear that today more than ever we are Kentucky's indispensable institution. But even as we pause to celebrate our past, it is, perhaps, even more important that we look forward - that we take a moment to discuss our hopes, our dreams and the realities of where we are as an institution and where we need to go, if UK and Kentucky are to move forward. Our futures -- that of UK and the Commonwealth we were founded to serve -- are inextricably linked. We will only go forward, we will only progress together. In Eli Capilouto, we have found the right person at a crucial moment in time to help lead our institution. He is committed to working with the campus community, the board and the Commonwealth. Dr. Capilouto is working to forge a campus consensus around a vision and agenda that insists that this institution's best and brightest days lie ahead. As a board, we, too, are committed to that idea. I'm excited and proud that we will officially mark this moment in UK's history and hear from the president today as we begin, together, to build that future. Thank you for being here and for your commitment to the University of Kentucky.” APPLAUSE Dr. Brockman then returns to his seat. Orator moves to the stage right lectern. ORATOR: “Mr. Micah Fielden, President of the UK Student Body and the Student Government Association.” Orator returns to his seat. Mr. Fielden moves to the center lectern and delivers greetings on behalf of students. MICAH FIELDEN: “Good afternoon. On behalf of the student body I would like to thank you for coming and offer our sincerest welcome. Today we celebrate the Investiture of UK’s twelfth President Dr. Eli Capilouto, and we recognize our school’s excellence and commitment to education. Dr. Capilouto has proven that he cares about students on this campus, and that we as the student body would like to thank him for making sure that no one feels like he or she is just a number. We are proud to celebrate the induction of Dr. Capilouto as our next President, and we are excited about the opportunities in the future. Of these opportunities is one that Dr. Capilouto has already set out to accomplish – to enhance the quality of students that UK recruits. These numbers speak for themselves as this year’s incoming freshman class is the most academically accomplished class in our nearly 150 years of history and has the highest average ACT scores to date. Dr. Capilouto’s commitment to continual improvements of undergraduate education is one that will pay off in multiple ways for the University and for the Commonwealth. He understands that in order for students to have the best experience possible, they must be supported by the best faculty and staff. At the core of retaining and building students of quality lies in having a strong base of quality teachers. Dr. Capilouto and the administration’s plan of strengthening the University’s already wonderful faculty in order to enhance the academic experience of students proves that he will work with us to achieve UK’s continuous vision of educating and improving the lives of all Kentuckians. As we gather for a ceremony that has only occurred a handful of times in the history of our institution, rest assured that you, Dr. Capilouto, have the full faith and support of the student body. We congratulate you on this historic occasion and warmly welcome you to the Wildcat family.” APPLAUSE ORATOR: “Ms. Cammie Grant, the President of the University of Kentucky National Alumni Association.” Ms. Grant moves to the center lectern and delivers greetings from the alumni. CAMMIE GRANT: “Thank you. On behalf of the University of Kentucky Alumni Association and over 236, 000 alumni, it is my honor to welcome you to the Investiture of UK’s twelfth president, Dr. Eli Capilouto. We take tremendous pride in our university. Today we celebrate its history and we look forward to a future full of promise. The University of Kentucky has had a tremendous impact on all of our lives. In turn, we are committed to supporting the university. We continually strive to support UK through scholarships, advocacy and many other programs and services. Today is an historic moment in the life of our institution. We mark the start of a new presidency and we, as a university and as an alumni association, reaffirm our commitment to UK and the Commonwealth. It is especially gratifying to hear about the commitment that Dr. Capilouto and the board are making to enhance and expand the undergraduate educational experience -- the core of any great university. The UK Alumni Association pledges its support to Dr. Capilouto’s commitment to move our university forward. We are honored to play a leadership role in doing just that. I’d like to share with you how Dr. Capilouto’s connection with UK was formed before he even realized it. I’m a native Kentuckian, but like Dr. Capilouto, my family’s roots are in Montgomery, Alabama. We discovered, ironically, that he grew up two blocks from my maternal grandparents’ home. Today, his closest childhood friend lives in what was my great grandparents’ home. But the UK connection followed him to Birmingham. The evening he and his wife, Dr. Mary Lynn Capilouto, were packing up their home to move to Lexington, the Birmingham UK Alumni Club hosted a reception for them at the home of the local club’s president. Dr. Capilouto finally met the owner of that UK flag that was proudly displayed just a few doors down the street. I’m glad that our UK alumni were on hand to welcome them to UK before they even left Birmingham. Thank you for joining on this special day and for your support of the University of Kentucky.” APPLAUSE ORATOR: “Dr. Hollie Swanson, Professor of Molecular and Biomedical Pharmacology and Chair of the University Senate Council.” HOLLIE SWANSON: “Good afternoon. As Chair of the University Senate Council I am here at this important moment in our university’s history representing over 2,100 full-time faculty members and nearly 500 part-time faculty members at the University of Kentucky. The Faculty of the University of Kentucky, originally a small group of 8 has changed considerably since 1880 in its composition, its diversity and in the knowledge that it imparts. With the investiture of Dr. Capilouto, the faculty looks forward to more change as we continue to build on the future of the university. I am honored to have this opportunity to officially welcome Dr. Capilouto and to wish him well as president of the University of Kentucky. A wise man----Jimi Hendrix once said “"Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens." Since June of this year, Dr. Capiluto has ascribed to these words and has listened carefully to our faculty, staff and students. I am confident that with this collective wisdom, we will be able to overcome our challenges and create a new vision for an innovative University of Kentucky. Within a university, shared governance is essential and must be based on mutual trust and a shared vision. As faculty, we look forward to building that trust and sharing our vision for the academic progress of this university. The challenges we face today in higher education require that we seek new and innovative approaches to our work and our responsibilities. Together, we can meet these challenges and move UK forward. President Capilouto, we wish you every success on this important endeavor that you have begun. Your successes will also be our successes for the benefit of the university, the community, and beyond. Thank you.” APPLAUSE ORATOR: “The UK Wind Ensemble and the University Chorale, under the direction of Dr. John “Cody” Birdwell, Professor and Director of Bands, in the UK School of Music, College of Fine Arts will perform a tribute: “Shenandoah.” UK Wind Ensemble and University Chorale perform “Shenandoah.” APPLAUSE ORATOR: “The Chair of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Britt Brockman, the Chairman of the Presidential Search Committee, Mr. Jim Stuckert, and Dr. Hollie Swanson, Chair of the University Senate Council” BRITT BROCKMAN: “It is the privilege of Mr. Stuckert, Dr. Swanson, and myself to perform the most important function of this day, the Investiture of the University of Kentucky’s twelfth president. I would like to ask Dr. Eli Capilouto, his wife, Dr. Mary Lynne Capilouto, and their daughter Emily to come forward.” Dr. Eli Capilouto, Dr. Mary Lynne Capilouto, and Emily move to the left of the center stage and just to the left side of the lectern. (the white “X” on the floor marks the spot for President Capilouto to stand. There will also be a white tape “spike” for Mary Lynne & Emily, Chair Brockman, Hollie Swanson, Mr. Stuckert) Dr. Capilouto is forward facing the free-standing microphone at the very corner of the Center Lectern somewhat hidden by the floral display, with family standing together beside him. BRITT BROCKMAN: “It is our pleasure to administer the Presidential Oath. Dr. CAPILOUTO, please raise your right hand, and repeat after me.” “In the presence of this audience, (BREAK; Dr. CAPILOUTO REPEATS) and before the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, (BREAK; Dr. CAPILOUTO REPEATS) and the members of this University Community, (BREAK; Dr. CAPILOUTO REPEATS) I, ELI CAPILOUTO pledge (BREAK; Dr. CAPILOUTO REPEATS) that I will execute the duties of the office of President of the University of Kentucky (BREAK; Dr. CAPILOUTO REPEATS) to the best of my ability (Dr. CAPILOUTO REPEATS) and in accordance with the charge and responsible duty vested with me. (Dr. CAPILOUTO REPEATS)" DR. BROCKMAN, still at the center lectern: “It is my great pleasure to present to you the Twelfth President of the University of Kentucky, Dr. ELI I. CAPILOUTO.” DR. BROCKMAN: “It is also my pleasure to present to you, Dr. Mary Lynne Capilouto.” Applause DR. BROCKMAN continues: “I would now ask Mr. Micah Fielden to receive the Presidential Medallion from Dr. Lee T. Todd, Jr. the 11th President of the University of Kentucky, and join us at center stage. DR BROCKMAN continues: “The Eighth President of the University of Kentucky, Dr. Otis A. Singletary, received the presidential medallion as a personal gift from UK alumnus, the late C. Robert Yeager. President Singletary made a gift of the medallion to the University of Kentucky when he left the Presidency, to be used by all future presidents. It is now our honor to pass this medallion on to our Twelfth President, Dr. Capilouto.” ORATOR: “Dr. Eli I. Capilouto, the Twelfth President of the University of Kentucky.” DR. CAPILOUTO: “I accept this honor with deep gratitude to a Search Committee, Board of Trustees, and University community who have bestowed upon Mary Lynne and me the privilege of a lifetime … to serve Kentucky alongside you as we prepare its sons and daughters for lives of meaning and purpose. “There are many among us who made this day possible. It is their commitment to the University that is the foundation of what we do here, and in whose honor I accept this privilege … “They are the faculty, staff, deans, and chairs who dazzle me each day with their brilliance, and their devotion to teaching our students and expanding the boundaries of discovery. With commitment to our students and an unyielding resolve, you attack the problems that confront our world … They are the students whose futures at this defining time in our nation have never been more promising or more uncertain … Your intellect, talent and optimism inspire me each and every day. “They are the generations of graduates, some 200,000 strong, who return to their communities as leaders -- as doctors, lawyers, poets, pharmacists, educators and entrepreneurs. You are beacons of hope for our Commonwealth and our world ... “They are my fellow presidents of Kentucky's colleges and universities along with members of the Council on Postsecondary Education. Each day, you lead with clarity and courage, understanding the critical role our respective colleges and universities play in creating a path of opportunity and promise …. “They are my fellow UK Presidents, on whose shoulders I now feel so privileged to stand. With us here today are Presidents Wethington and Todd, whose examples of leadership and whose advice to me has been meaningful and invaluable. “And they are the people of Kentucky, who hold in their hearts a special place for this University – their University. “And they are my family … my grandparents who came to this country so that we might live the uniquely American dream. And Mary Lynne and Emily -- who sustain me with their love and support … “It is with much gratitude that I accept this honor, recognizing that I share it with all who make this university THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY. “I stand here today, both humbled and emboldened by a rich legacy - the generations of students, faculty, presidents and leaders whose work and voices speak to me. “And say one thing: “This place is truly remarkable. “When Mary Lynne and I were first approached with this opportunity, we were struck by what we read about the ambitions of the university's community and about the progress being made. Our ascent as a university has been impressive and our work and efforts are recognized around the country and world. “But it was not until we actually visited this place that we felt in a meaningful and lasting manner its defining character –it is what I call the soul of the University of Kentucky. “And it is everywhere … in the energetic eyes of our students … in the dedicated tone of the voices of faculty … and in the welcoming handshake and committed demeanor of our staff. “Whether it's manifest in faculty from our College of Design and Center for Applied Energy Research who are building energy efficient, low-cost housing to reposition Kentucky's houseboat industry … “Or from the extension centers where county agents sustain communities through the performing arts and home gardens that provide families with affordable food. “Whether it’s from caregivers in our healthcare facilities, who ensure that Kentuckians can wake up and know that no matter where they are in the state or how serious their illness or condition, they can receive the nation's best care at UK. “Or from faculty and staff representing virtually every college on this campus who worked tirelessly to receive one of only 60 translational science awards in the nation so that discoveries in the lab are quickly transformed into community solutions … “Whether it’s our students, who dedicate their time and talent to be ambassadors of our university be it through visual and performing arts, student government, athletics, Greek life, and faith communities -- or through more than 450 student organizations, all while they put academics first. “You cannot help but be moved by this University’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge and steadfast devotion to service. “And it is just not on this campus. I have seen it in every corner of our Commonwealth … from Pikeville to Paducah. I have heard it through stories shared with me in diners and town halls, in homes and offices and in high school classrooms … “It is an idea not captured in statistics or in an abstract narrative. “The University of Kentucky is a promise -- one that is manifest in each of us. “It is a promise we have all made to each other … forged almost 150 years ago in the darkest hour of our nation's history … reverberating in the echoes and voices of those who came before us and those who will dream long after we have faded… “UK is a promise … understood by President Patterson who made personal loans to help a fledging university survive … a promise that was carried forward by President McVey whose planning and vision during the throes of a Depression have guided our efforts and facilities for decades … and a promise brought to life by President McVey, who in the face of opposition and doubt, birthed a medical center that provides community and specialty care to millions. “UK is a promise -- a covenant that Kentuckians have made with each other to build a shining beacon of excellence that will light our path forward and illuminate our efforts and progress. “UK is a promise we have made to each other that says that young Kentuckians from all walks of life, backgrounds and experiences are welcome here … and that they leave as our best and brightest because we foster their potential and brilliance. “But what does this promise mean today? And -- looking to the future -- how do we honor that promise in these times? “With a fierce sense of urgency we begin to think anew and rebuild this campus so we can overcome that which confronts us. “Why? “Because an independent study of the academic core of our campus recommended that we tear down 12 buildings and undertake major renovations of 29 more. “Because the vast majority of our space is not accessible to people with disabilities - more so than any campus in Kentucky. Because in the core of our campus the average age of buildings is nearly 50 years and they are deteriorating at rates that require daily patching when the long-term cost of rebuilding is wiser. “And because only 10 percent of students who live in our residence halls live in modern housing. “We have more than $1 billion in construction needs … but in the midst of great economic challenge, there are opportunities. Construction costs have never been more affordable and interest rates never lower or more competitive. “We will ask the state for support, support they have long sought to give as partners in the promise of UK. But we must also find new approaches to earn our way … through greater and more intentional philanthropy … through innovative partnerships that leverage our resources … through smart growth of our student body … and through globalization of our campus and internationalization of our programs and different modes of learning. “There is no easy time. There is only our time. And this is the University of Kentucky’s time -- because we must honor our promise. “This means we will construct residence halls that provide high-tech living and learning opportunities for our students, where they can learn as part of a community, and be prepared for a more diverse world. “We will build new classroom space in the core of our campus … equipped with technology that opens up nearly unlimited potential for students and faculty to teach and learn as partners. Space that allows us to expand our innovative educational and honors programs, including clinical and research space so our students can know the most modern of discoveries and heal and touch lives. “We will grow the funds so that we can stop saying no to hundreds of talented freshman who qualify for our highest scholastic award – the Singletary Scholarship. And we will work to structure opportunities to ensure that our best and brightest students do not leave the Commonwealth ... And for more students who show promise and who want to realize their dreams through education. “We will become more diverse and inclusive -- with more students of different races and ethnicities, with different backgrounds, experiences, and origins. As a university, we must -- and we will -- reflect the interconnected world in which our students are expected to compete and succeed. “21st century facilities are essential to our students’ success. But bricks and mortar only matter when the right people are there to light the fire of our students’ imaginations. “We must have as a goal to appropriately and comprehensively support our faculty and staff who make this promise real. “And we will continue to seek ways to finance revitalized facilities for the arts and self-financed athletic facilities, which together both draw in new students and cement ties to our alumni and supporters throughout the Commonwealth and the nation. “It is time to build with our eyes fixed firmly on honoring the promise, to which we -- and those whose efforts laid the foundation of this institution -- are all committed. “We cannot wait, or be held back because we were afraid to take these first steps. “We must – and we will – act. “We will honor Kentucky's promise -- to each other -- to our students and to our children. “And I, as this university’s president, promise to accept the challenge. “UK is, indeed, a remarkable place. “It is remarkable for the excellence of its legacy, in the clarity of its values, and the sustenance we find in its potential. “Let us together proclaim, in the cadence of a common voice, that we are resolute in seeing that the University of Kentucky's promise will endure. “Thank you.” Applause. ORATOR: “Please remain standing. Will this community of scholars present today please stand as The University Chorale, under the direction of Dr. Jefferson Johnson, perform, “My Old Kentucky Home.” My Old Kentucky Home. Applause. ORATOR: “Will the audience please remain standing for the recessional of the Platform Party and the UK Faculty.” RECESSIONAL: The University Wind Ensemble plays Mr. Holland’s Opus (Finale) ~An American Symphony” by Michael Kamen