University of North Texas North Texan Online Summer 2007 : Inauguration with a Purpose

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In keeping with American university tradition, a ceremonial endowment of presidential powers took place Friday, April 13, in the UNT Coliseum with the installation of Gretchen M. Bataille as UNT's 14th president. But the events surrounding the inauguration did more than uphold tradition. The new president used them to create need-based scholarships for students.

In conjunction with the Emerald Ball — a black-tie reception, dinner and dance held in the University Union the night of the inauguration — two scholarship programs were established. Proceeds from Emerald Ball ticket sales and sponsorships raised more than $350,000 for the new Emerald Eagle Scholars program, offering need-based scholarships for undergraduate students. An additional $100,000 was donated by the supporters of Happy Hill Farm Academy to create the Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw Scholarship Fund, which will benefit academy students who attend UNT.

In addition to raising more than $450,000 for scholarships, the inauguration reflected the new president's vision through its theme, Rays of Excellence — Rekindle. Ignite. Illuminate. Bataille says the focus under her leadership will be to rekindle relationships with alumni, ignite new excitement in the university's future and illuminate and elevate the image and reputation of the university.


	The inaugural ceremony began Friday morning with a procession of delegates representing faculty, staff, students, alumni and other institutions of higher learning. (Photo by Angilee Wilkerson)


	A Navajo blessing was offered. (Photo by Angilee Wilkerson)


	The blessing was followed by remarks and personal tributes from community leaders, elected officials, Bataille's children (including her son, shown here), friends and former colleagues. (Photo by Angilee Wilkerson)


	The new president was presented with the mace and medallion, symbols of her authority and office, before delivering her inaugural address. (Photo by Jonathan Reynolds)


	At the Emerald Ball Friday evening, the president wore a gown designed by Michael Faircloth ('83), whose clients include First Lady Laura Bush. The gown, draped with green and black iridescent silk chiffon, was made of black English cotton net with hand-embroidered green flowers. (Photo by Angilee Wilkerson)


	Entertainment included vocalists, mariachis, steel drums and jazz combos, and guests danced to the One O'Clock Lab Band. (Photo by Mike Woodruff)

View more photos from the inauguration >>

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