Public Invited to Inauguration of Simpson University's New President

REDDING, Calif. - Simpson University will hold its first presidential inauguration in more than a decade with the inauguration of the university's 13th president, Dr. Larry J. McKinney, on Oct. 13.

The inauguration ceremony, open to the public, will be held from 1:30 - 3 p.m. in the Heritage Student Life Center on the university's campus and will include local and national speakers.  The inauguration will be part of the university's annual homecoming Celebration Weekend, with activities ranging from soccer and volleyball games to discussions of the university's future.

"An inauguration ceremony carries important symbolism for the life of a university.  The formal transition of presidential leadership is a wonderful opportunity to remind ourselves of the central purposes served by Simpson University: to educate and prepare students for world service.  We anticipate this will be a special time of celebration," said university provost, Dr. Stanley A. Clark. 

Dr. McKinney has met a number of students since he began his duties at Simpson University in mid-August.  The student response to his appointment has been positive.

"The first thing I noticed about Dr. McKinney is how personable and approachable he is.  Whenever I see him on campus I always feel comfortable going up to him.  He takes an interest in the students and the university athletic events.  He's going to make a lot of positive changes at Simpson," said Leah Rush, a Simpson University student.

Dr. McKinney, a native of Farmington, Pennsylvania, holds a Bachelor of Science in Bible from Philadelphia Biblical University, a Master of Arts in Educational Ministries from Wheaton College, and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from Temple University.

Dr. McKinney and his wife Debbie, moved to Redding this summer allowing him to begin his duties as president as the fall semester began.  Dr. McKinney succeeds Dr. James M. Grant, who retired in April after serving 13 years as president.

For more information regarding the presidential inauguration, call Regina Erickson at (530) 226-4718.

 

 

Contact: Wendy Rose
wrose@simpsonuniversity.edu
(530)226-4126