Investiture held for Southeastern President Michael Turner

December 5, 2008

Investiture Website

DURANT, Okla. -- The Investiture of Dr. Michael D. Turner, the 18th President of Southeastern Oklahoma State University, was held Friday afternoon on campus in Montgomery Auditorium.

Investitures, formal ceremonies to confer the authority and symbols of high office, are a long-standing tradition at academic institutions.

Following is the schedule of events for Investiture Week:

Attending the event were a number of dignitaries from state government and higher education, delegates from other colleges and universities, faculty and staff members, students, community members, and other special guests.

Chancellor Glen D. Johnson of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education, presented the symbols of office (mace and medallion) to President Turner. Chancellor Johnson served as the 16th President of Southeastern.

Regent Joe Anna Hibler, Chair of the Regional University System of Oklahoma, delivered the charge and presented the seal prior to President Turner's address to the audience.

Also on the program delivering remarks were Regent John Massey of the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education; Dr. John deSteiguer, Vice President for Advancement at Oklahoma Christian University; Dr. Larry Minks, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Southeastern; Student Government Association President Adam Lovell; Faculty Senate Chair Dr. Wayne Jones; Alumni Association President Mary Kathryn Hodge; and Investiture Committee co-chairs Vicki Hudson and Dr. Shannon McCraw.

Providing music at the event were Dr. Mary Ann Craige, the Chorale, Symphonic Choir, Band, and Brass Ensemble.

The day's activities continued with the unveiling of a historical marker in front of the President's Home in conjunction with Southeastern's centennial celebration, and concluded in the evening with an Inaugural Ball, with proceeds going to student scholarships.