Elon University’s ninth president begins work on March 1 with a day full of events to engage the campus community. Make plans to welcome President Book at a campus celebration, lunch with students, a Phoenix basketball game and other events.
“Imagining What We Can Do Together”
9:40 a.m., Great Hall, Global Commons Building
President Book will be formally welcomed to Elon in a community gathering focused on the future. She will be introduced by first-year class president Cam Waddell ‘21 and vice president emerita Jo Watts Williams ‘55. The program will include video messages from Elon alumni around the world and remarks from President Book. All attendees will be invited to write their hopes for Elon’s future on special stationery, with the submissions to be preserved in the Elon archives.
The program will conclude with a ceremonial planting of a white oak and an opportunity for all to take selfie photos with President Book for use on social media.
Beginning Together Lunch at Lakeside
Noon, Lakeside Dining Hall
President Book will meet students who are enjoying their lunch in Lakeside Dining Hall. This is a great opportunity for students to introduce themselves and welcome Elon’s new president to the community.
Faculty/Staff Tailgate
5:30 p.m., Jordan Gym, Koury Athletics Center
Prior to the Elon women’s basketball game, all faculty and staff and their families are invited to an informal tailgate dinner in Jordan Gym. There will be game-day food, music selections from President Book’s personal playlist and some good fellowship.
Final Basketball Game in Alumni Gym
7 p.m., Alumni Gym, Koury Athletics Center
Be on hand for the end of an era, as the Phoenix women take on William & Mary in the final regular season intercollegiate basketball game in Alumni Gym. President Book will be joined by students in the president’s box and will team up with Athletics Director Dave Blank on Robertson Court at halftime to honor former Elon basketball players who played in this historic facility. Next season, Elon’s men’s and women’s basketball teams and the volleyball team will begin play in Schar Center.
Beginning Together Facebook Live
9:30-10 p.m. at facebook.com/elonuniversity
President Book will be interviewed online via Facebook Live by communications students Perry Elyanderani ’18 and Jackie Pascale ’18. Watch their broadcast live from Maynard House on Elon’s Facebook page and be sure to comment with your questions for our new president.
In addition to these public events, President Book will begin the day with a morning workout at Stewart Fitness Center, will have breakfast with physical plant and campus safety and police staff members, will join student leaders for breakfast, and will participate in afternoon class sessions with students and faculty members.
For more information on President Book and her selection as Elon’s ninth president, go to www.elon.edu/presidentbook.