Beloit College Magazine
Beloit College Magazine
Spring 2001 Contents
Departments
Features
- Do You Do What You Say You Do?
- Renewed Spirit Marks Inauguration Day
- On the Trail of Roy Chapman Andrews
- A Hands-on Approach to History
- Chalk One Up for Student-Faculty Research
- The Writing is On the Wall
- A Touch of Gold
- A Beloit and the Peace Corps: Adventures in Service
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Beloit College Magazine
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belmag@beloit.edu
Honored guests from 50 colleges and centers of learning attended; formal academic and
civic greetings were made; stirring music was heard everywhere; and a dazzle of
international flags and academic colors marked the formal proceedings of Inauguration Day
for John E. Burris, Beloit College’s 10th president. 
“Mr. Burris has every gift of ability and experience necessary to discharge with distinction the duties of President of Beloit College,” said Andrew A. Davis’79, chair of the Board of Trustees. “As we vest him with the authority of office, we do so with the utmost confidence that he will keep Beloit on its course.”
Applause resounded through Eaton Chapel as President Burris was presented with the silver Presidential medallion. Students’ cheers also greeted the new President, who seemed embarrassed by all the attention. “It’s a bit frightening to get an ovation prior to speaking,” he said.
In his address, President Burris stressed the importance of teaching students how to learn and of mapping the direction of the College for the future. He also focused on the need for Beloit College to examine its unique characteristics in order to build on them.
“We will continue to be an innovative, international place that embraces diversity and encourages experimentation,” he said, crediting the dedication of Beloiters who preceded him, including the three former presidents in attendance: Victor E. Ferrall, Jr., Roger H. Hull (now president of Union College), and Miller Upton.
The ceremony included salutations from student, faculty, alumni, staff, and city representatives, and also by members of United States and international academic communities. Ian Thomson’02, president of BelSAC, welcomed President Burris as the new “captain of a college docked by the Rock River.” Jack Street, professor of modern languages and literatures, shared the story of a faculty member who approached others with a message: “John Burris is a great guy. Pass it on.”
Following the investiture, the College community gathered in the Flood Arena for lunch and live music. Anticipation of the Inaugural Ball generated an afternoon-long buzz. At 9 o’clock, Beloiters and special guests turned out in evening finery and danced and dined until the wee hours—enjoying a spectacular finale to an historic and memorable day.
Email:
John Burris - President of Beloit College
Jack Street - Professor of Modern Languages and Literatures
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