Inauguration of 10th College President celebrated with receptions, performances

Shahreen Saifi Staff Writer

The inauguration of Vassar’s 10th president Catharine “Cappy” Bond Hill and its celebratory events look to match the splendor of past presidential inaugurations to merit a place in the annals of Vassar’s history.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the inauguration, including Vassar students, faculty, and staff members, delegates from colleges across the U.S., and Poughkeepsie community leaders. “It’s been hectic but also fun,” said the Senior Officer and Chair of the Inaugural Committee, and Vice President for College Relations Susan DeKrey. “One of the best things about the planning process is there have been a lot of people involved from all parts of campus that have made it pleasant and doable. People are excited.”

The affairs of Hill’s inauguration from Oct. 25 through Oct. 29 promise to be even more eventful than those of previous years. While still following the standard structure of academic and celebratory components, the Inaugural Committee has planned several unique events that will precede the inauguration ceremony.

For example, “Cappy and the Chocolate Factory,” a highly-anticipated “student extravaganza,” will take place at 9 p.m. in the Students’ Building. The event is promoted as a festival of desserts, including a chocolate fondue fountain, “Cappy” candy bars, and a cotton candy wall, with live entertainment by the Saints of Swing.

The week’s events started with “Cappy Hour,” a reception for College employees, on Oct. 25. A series of special drama, music, and dance performances were held in Hill’s honor will begin with the Drama Department’s play, entitled OTMA, at the Powerhouse Theatre.

At noon on Oct. 26, an invitation-only lunch was held at the ALANA Center with Hill as the guest of honor, followed by an Exhibition Opening and Artist Reception at the Palmer Gallery. That evening, the music department put on a celebratory concert, featuring student and faculty musicians at Skinner Hall.

On Oct. 27, there will be activities for everyone, ranging from Vassar Repertory Dance Theatre performances in the Frances Daly Fergusson Dance Theater in Kenyon Hall at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to an Alumnae/i Dinner.

Two panel discussions will be held on Saturday, Oct. 28, one by alumnae/i entitled “Teaching That Changed Our Lives” and the other by economists entitled “Higher Education Affordability and Access.” The week will culminate with the inauguration ceremony on Oct. 29, which will be followed by a reception outside the Chapel and fireworks at 5 p.m.

“It’s very historic, it’s important,” said DeKrey. “It’s an opportunity for us to showcase Vassar College and for Vassar College to showcase its new president.”