Dr. David King was officially inaugurated as President of Malone University Saturday, October 27.

The ceremony took place in the Johnson Center with many esteemed individuals present. These included students, alumni, faculty, employees from other universities, and representatives from Dr. King’s former place of employment, Eastern University in Pennsylvania.

Dr. King and his wife on stage are honored with a speech before Dr. King is presented with the presidential medallion.  (Photo Andrew Dole)

The installation service featured speeches from officials that spoke of Dr. King’s responsibilities as President. He was given a charge to lead with integrity and with spiritual guidance.

As a symbol of his inauguration, Dr. King was presented with the presidential medallion. It features the university’s seal and motto on it, which Dr. King will wear it during all academic ceremonies.

The service also included readings and other speeches from a diverse group of people who represent Malone, Eastern, other committees and organizations, and Dr. King’s family.

Both the speeches and readings focused on community on campus and in the larger area. Dr. King talked about the fifth foundational principle, which reads, “We live and learn in a community that manifests and develops concern for others.”

King called it “a community on the rise.”

In his inaugural address, he said his main goals for the university under his leadership were “community, stewardship, and excellence.”

Both community and holiness were stressed in the inauguration. Even though it was a formal affair, Dr. King and the other speakers specified simplicity in his service. He wishes to lead with confidence through God and benefit the university during his term.

Ian Chandler is a staff writer for The Aviso AVW.