ºÚÁÏ¿Æ

Academic Symposium
Campus Center | 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Faculty-led discussions and presentations exploring topics aligned with the University's mission, values, and future aspirations.

Golden Bear Cookout with the President
Commonwealth Lawn | 5:00 p.m.
A student-focused celebration providing an opportunity for students to connect with President Hartman and mark the beginning of a new chapter in University leadership.

Greater Springfield Community Breakfast
University Commons Terrace | 7:30 a.m.
A gathering of business, civic, nonprofit, and educational leaders celebrating the University's longstanding partnership with the Greater Springfield community.
Invitation only

Installation Ceremony
The Campus of ºÚÁÏ¿Æ | 10:00 a.m.
The formal installation of Joseph C. Hartman as the seventh president of ºÚÁÏ¿Æ. The ceremony will feature academic traditions, distinguished guests, and delegates representing colleges and universities from across the region and nation.

Inauguration Luncheon
The Campus of ºÚÁÏ¿Æ | 12:00 p.m.
A celebratory luncheon honoring President Hartman's installation and welcoming guests from across the University and higher education communities.

Center for Advanced Manufacturing Ribbon Cutting
Campus Utilities Building | 12:00 p.m. (pending Installation conclusion)
Celebrate the opening of the College of Engineering's CAMS Laboratory.
Invitation Only

Gala Celebration
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame | 5:30 p.m.
An evening of fellowship and celebration bringing together alumni, donors, trustees, community leaders, faculty, staff, students, and friends of the University to commemorate this historic occasion.
Invitation only

A presidential inauguration is the broader series of events celebrating the beginning of a new presidency and a new chapter in the life of the University. The installation is the formal ceremony during which Dr. Joseph C. Hartman will be officially installed as ºÚÁÏ¿Æ’s seventh president.

Expect an academic procession with academic regalia like Commencement. Inaugural processions include delegates from other colleges and universities and representatives from the faculty, Board of Trustees,and featured speakers. Various constituencies of the University (students, faculty, staff, alumni, board members, retirees, friends of the University, elected officials) participate and many share greetings and congratulations during the ceremony with the new president on behalf of their constituent group. Delegates (often presidents or their designees) from other colleges and universities attend and march in the procession. The new president gives an inaugural address, laying out their priorities for their presidency.

Yes, you may still be able to attend the Installation Ceremony. A limited number of seats will be available to walk-in guests on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors will open at 9 a.m. on September 10, and we encourage walk-in guests to arrive early to ensure they get a seat. If we reach capacity in the HLC, there will be overflow seating available. Details will be posted on the inauguration website.

The installation ceremony is open to members of the ºÚÁÏ¿Æ community, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, invited guests, and friends of the University. Additional details about registration or tickets will be provided in future communications.

Guests may be asked to register in advance so the University can plan appropriately for seating, parking, and event logistics. RSVP information will be provided in official University communications.

The installation ceremony will take place on the ºÚÁÏ¿Æ campus. The specific location will be announced on the inauguration website once finalized.

The installation ceremony will begin at 10:00 a.m. on September 10. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for parking, check-in if required, and seating before the academic procession and ceremony begin.

Parking will be available on campus, with designated areas identified for guests. Directional signage and members of public safety will be available to assist visitors. Additional parking information will be shared closer to the event.

Yes. Accessible seating will be available for guests who need it. Guests needing accessibility accommodations are encouraged to indicate their needs when RSVPing..

The University will livestream of the installation ceremony for those who are unable to attend in person. A recording of the installation ceremony is expected to be made available immediately after. Details will be posted on the inauguration website.

Business or business casual attire is appropriate for most guests. Faculty and official delegates participating in the academic procession will be asked to wear academic regalia.

Yes. The installation ceremony traditionally includes an academic procession featuring members of the faculty, platform party, delegates, and other official participants. Details will be shared directly with those participating in the procession.

Some classes may be in session during the time of the installation, the academic symposium, and other events. Faculty may use their discretion regarding cancelling or rescheduling those classes, and more detailed information will be provided to guide syllabus decisions from the Office of the Provost.

A community luncheon will follow the installation ceremony. Details will be posted once the full inauguration schedule is finalized.

Questions about inauguration events may be directed to the Office of Marketing and External Affairs at Inauguration@wne.edu.