On Friday, May 2, James M. Beeby was inaugurated as the 11th chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
The event started with a processional parade led by UWL’s Screaming Eagles Marching Band. Following the band, 200+ faculty and staff members dressed in their graduation regalia walked in excitement as they headed to the Student Union. Chancellor Beeby trailed the faculty while waving to the crowd that was congregated on Badger Street.
Following the procession, spectators filed in to take their seats in the Bluffs Ballroom. Once they were seated, the assembly of faculty walked in to take their seats. Among UWL staff were delegates from 18 other academic institutions showing their support for the newly appointed chancellor.
The inauguration started with a welcome address from the President of the Universities of Wisconsin, Jay Rothman. After Rothman’s address, Wisconsin Senator Brad Pfaff spoke on behalf of Governor Tony Evers about Beeby’s contribution to an ‘already great town and university’.
La Crosse Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey and President of Student Association Emma Latus shared similar sentiments. The inauguration went on as a plethora of university leaders shared stories about Beeby and how his presence has already made an impact in the lives of students and faculty around him.
These stories painted Beeby as an active member of the La Crosse community. Known as the ‘walking chancellor’, there were countless stories of Beeby running late to meetings due to talking with students and faculty on campus. He can also frequently be found at sporting events, theater productions and anywhere the school choir is performing.
Chancellor Beeby even has a tradition of eating at the Whitney Center every Wednesday so that he can sit down and talk with students while swiping a few sweet treats.
When it was Beeby’s turn to speak, his address was filled with appreciation for all the people who spoke before him. After giving thanks to all those who helped him on his journey to become chancellor, he praised the university for its success with its students, faculty and athletics.
Upon taking office there are three ceremonial symbols that signal the induction of a new chancellor. First, the medallion is a symbol of academic excellence that has been worn since the Middle Ages to signify honor, distinction, and the advancement of knowledge.
The second ceremonial symbol is the mace. This item was once a weapon in medieval combat but is now used to signify the pursuit of truth. The mace was brought in by Provost and Vice Chancellor Betsy Morgan as it is traditionally carried by a distinguished faculty member.
The final symbol is the academic regalia of chancellors. Similar to a graduation gown, Beeby’s regalia was tailored to him and his achievements throughout his academic career.
“The college mace and the medallion are solemn reminders of my obligation to serve this university with integrity, vision, and care for all and to do my best every day for all of you. I will never waver in this commitment,” Beeby said.
As a first-generation college graduate and historian, Beeby preached on the importance of universities and their role in society.
“As we enter the new conceptual age, universities must remain in the forefront and meet the challenges of today to ensure a better tomorrow… and that is what we are doing here at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse,” Beeby said.
Following the inauguration there was a community celebration on the Student Union Lawn. The Screaming Eagles Marching Band provided live music while guests mingled and snacked on light refreshments.
