Inauguration of President Douglas Hicks 2023 Dignitaries on stage during the ceremony

Presidential Inauguration

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The Inauguration of the 19th President of ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø, Douglas A. Hicks '90, took place Friday, March 31, 2023.

ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø was delighted to host a series of community events and celebrations at the end of March, culminating in the inauguration of Doug Hicks as the 19th President of ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø on Friday, March 31, 2023 at 2:30 p.m.

This was an opportunity for the community to come together, reflect on our history, envision our future, and have fun. 

ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø Inaugurates Douglas A. Hicks ’90

Schedule of Events & Celebrations

Campus Block Party

Wednesday, March 29

6–10 p.m.

Alvarez College Union

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This event is open to the campus community.

  • Music in Brown Atrium featuring student, faculty, and staff bands.
  • Ping-pong,Ìýchess matches and special-themed Trivia Night — with President Hicks.
  • Food trucks in the Alvarez College Union parking lot.

Unveiling the Commemoration Design Concept

Thursday, March 30

11:05 a.m. –12:05 p.m.

Duke Family Performance Hall

Open to the public.

  • Unveiling of plans for the Commemoration Memorial honoring enslaved laborers and others whose labor was exploited.
  • President Hicks will moderate a conversation with the artist, architect, and members of the commemoration committee.

Symposium: Envisioning Our Future

A Conversation with Faculty, Alumni, & President Hicks

Friday, March 31

11:30Ìýa.m. –12:30Ìýp.m.Ìý

Duke Family Performance Hall

Open to the public.

  • The Honorable Anthony Foxx ’93 and Mary Tabb Mack ‘84Ìýwill join Professors Patricio Boyer, Hilary Green, Kristi Multhaup, and President Doug Hicks ’90 to discuss how ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø’s past and present can shape our future, and how we prepare for the changing nature of work and society.

Inauguration Ceremony

Friday, March 31

2:30–4 p.m.

(doors open at 1:30 p.m.)

Belk Arena and also via livestream

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Open to the public. Guests are kindly asked to

  • Music from students; inaugural poem composed and delivered by an alum.
  • Alumni and Trustee representatives; delegates from colleges and universities across the country; greetings from public officials.
  • Formal investiture ceremony.
  • Inaugural address delivered by President Hicks.

Community Celebration

Friday, March 31

4–8 p.m.

Richardson Stadium field and Alvarez College Union patio

Open to the public.ÌýGuests are kindly asked to

  • DJ serves up music through the decades (4 to 6 p.m.)
  • Popular indie band — stay tuned! (6 to 8 p.m.)
  • Giveaways, food, drinks,Ìýice cream, and games!