Chancellor reigns supreme

Last week marked an important moment in history as Thomas K. Harden was inaugurated at the Weidner Center Oct. 30 as UW-Green Bay's the fifth chancellor. Harden actually assumed his duties as chancellor on June 1. Harden came to Green Bay from Clayton State University, a metropolitan institution of 6,000 students located near Atlanta, where he was appointed president in 2000. His previous academic and administrative experience includes positions at Eastern Michigan University, Northern Kentucky University, Southwest Texas State University, Western Illinois University and Miami University. The week included a carnival in the University Union Oct. 28 in which Harden and his wife Cathy attended. "We wanted a fun way for students to meet the chancellor and learn more about him," said Brenda Amenson-Hill, interim dean of students, who was a part of the inauguration committee. The committee was made up of both faculty and staff from the university. "I think this was a great opportunity to see students in their natural environment," Harden said. "My wife Cathy is here too and we're having a lot of fun." The carnival offered an assortment of games run by various student organizations on campus, as well as caricatures of Harden. The Phoenix Bookstore had games of blackjack with Phoenix dolls as prizes, while RHAA and their umbrella organizations CAB, NRHH, and the Community Councils had various games set up. Other student groups involved included the Ambassadors, Good Times Programming and the Student Government Association. "I think it was a great way for students to meet the new chancellor and see what he's all about," said junior business administration major Becky Hintz. "He's done a great job meeting and connecting to all the students." Being UWGB's fifth chancellor, Harden succeeds Bruce Shepard, who left in 2008 to accept the presidency of Western Washington University. Other previous chancellors were Mark Perkins, David Outcalt and the late Edward Weidner, founding chancellor. Shepard, Perkins, and former Interim Chancellor David Ward were all in attendance at the inaugural ceremony. Weidner's widow, Marge, was also in attendance. Others in attendance included chancellors, presidents, and provosts from other universities and colleges. The ceremony opened with a welcome from Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Julia Wallace. She commented that this was a day to celebrate the past, present, and future of UWGB. The presentation of the colors was then given by the St. Norbert College/UWGB ROTC Color Guard, with The Star-Spangled Banner sung by Professor Courtney Sherman. "This is a big day for both UWGB and the UW System community as a whole," UW System President Kevin Reilly said in his greetings at the ceremony. "An awesome trust comes with leading an institution." Speaking on behalf of the UW Board of Regents, Judith V. Crain then spoke about how Harden understands the deep educational challenges and that [the Regents] look forward to what Harden can bring. She finished with saying, "he is needed." Green Bay mayor, Jim Schmitt was present with one piece of advice for Harden. "After completing a long career in Green Bay, retire once," Schmitt said to a round of applause and laughs. Joe Tyrell, president of SGA, represented the students of UWGB. He commended Harden on his efforts to be genuinely interested in student success, and welcomed him on behalf of the student body. Representatives of faculty and staff welcomed Harden to the university. A central idea seemed to encircle many of the speeches made. This idea includes Harden understanding problems that faculty and staff face, and sharing their frustration. Furloughs were given as a prime example of a big challenge that Harden understands is tough. "We appreciate his willingness to receive faculty input, even when he isn't asked to," said Brian Sutton, who represented the faculty. After speeches were made by various people, the time came for the actual inauguration of Harden. Reilly installed him. "The demand and need for higher education has never been greater," Reilly said. "We celebrate with Harden, a new journey in his life, and a new chapter for UWGB." Reilly added that universities must teach people to make a living and prepare them for life, and that Harden understands the mosaic of skills important in life. Harden began his inaugural address saying, "With eyes wide open with enthusiasm, I accept the position as fifth Chancellor." Harden went on, making the promise to focus on students, and always ask if what we are about to do in the best interest of the students. He spoke to the students about their goals, and urged them to create their own path; that the first couple years of school are crucial and set the stone for remaining years. He urged students to retain what they learn and put it to good use. Harden also spoke about the quality of the faculty and staff at UWGB, and how impressed he is. "We have a stable faculty and staff, who exceed expectations and are good at what they do," Harden said in his speech. "This university really does have so much to offer." While thanking his family for all of their support over the years, Harden presented his wife Cathy with a bouquet of flowers. Harden was presented with the Chancellor's medallion, which represents the authority of the chancellor and is worn during commencement and other ceremonial occasions. This medallion has been worn by all previous chancellors of UWGB. Harden also signed the Ceremonial Document, stored as a scroll inside the handle of the University Mace and contains the signatures of the previous chancellors. This document carries a proclamation in support of UWGB's mission. The ceremony concluded with Professor Sarah Meredith Livingston singing the Alma Mater.