A New Era Begins The inauguration of Dr. David Wilson as the University’s 12th president By Eric Addison Homecoming Week is always an exciting time at Morgan State University, and during Homecoming 2010, the inauguration of Dr. David Wilson as the University’s 12th president lifted emotions to a new high. The celebration of the start of Dr. Wilson’s tenure at Morgan ran from Oct. 17 through Oct. 24 and included numerous activities and events designed to showcase Morgan’s power and potential. The agenda included: three national symposia discussing science, technology, engineering and math issues critical to the nation’s future and to Morgan’s; a research symposium for undergraduate and graduate students at MSU; a citywide reading series focusing on the book “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks”; an essay contest on ethics, values and minorities in science, medicine, research and public health; a creative writing contest; a performing arts convocation featuring the MSU Choir, MSU Dance Troupe, MSU Jazz Ensemble and Theatre Morgan; and several broadcasts on Morgan’s public radio station WEAA-88.9 FM.
Tradition shared the spotlight with bold ambition for Morgan at the inauguration ceremony itself, which took place on Thursday, Oct. 21 in the Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center’s Gilliam Concert Hall. Dozens of special guests took the stage with Dr. Wilson, including national, state and local government officials, and administration and faculty representatives of Morgan and other academic institutions. Nearly 20 of the guests gave remarks, among them, U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.), Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Dr. Wilson’s son, Nyere Lucas Brown-Wilson. After taking the Presidential Oath of Office from MSU Board of Regents Chairman Dallas R. Evans, Dr. Wilson outlined his vision for Morgan’s new era. The new president opened his heart to the audience, revealing his childhood hardships that are the source of his passion for education. And he invited the MSU family to partner with him in making his vision real.
“FOR THIS VISION TO SUCCEED, WE WILL NEED EVERYONE TO JOIN TOGETHER IN THE SPIRIT OF COLLABORATION AND PARTNERSHIP AND INNOVATION AND CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.” “THE FOUNDATION FOR GREATNESS HERE AT MORGAN INDEED HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED…. NOW IS THE TIME TO AGGRESSIVELY AND STRATEGICALLY BUILD UPON THAT FOUNDATION.” — Dr. David Wilson, MSU President
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