FEATURE I n a u g u ra t i o n
Daniel C. Dobbins is Installed as McKendree’s 33rd President by Stephanie (Coartney) Dulaney, ’10 For President Daniel C. Dobbins ’81, the call to lead his alma mater was not only about what he could accomplish singularly but also his desire to unite the talents, determination and resilient spirit of all those who make up the University community, as “One McKendree.” President Dobbins began his new role on Jan. 1, 2020, but it was not until the Founders Day observance on Feb. 19, 2021, that he was formally installed in a socially distanced inauguration ceremony. After nearly a year of unprecedented challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the University paused to draw inspiration from its 193-year history of leaders who endured tough times of their own, as well as celebrate President Dobbins’ leadership and hope for the future. “There is no doubt that little has been customary about President Dobbins’ first year as president,” said Board of Trustees Chair Daniel Lett ’91. “But he has served the University with perseverance, dedication and flexibility. Today we celebrate his leadership and the strength of the University during this difficult time.” Former President James Dennis called 2020 “a year unlike any other,” and even President Dobbins acknowledged in his inauguration address that “none of us could have foreseen the disruption caused by COVID-19 this past year.” Through it all, he held the University true to its mission, continuing to provide students a quality education through virtual and safely distanced in-person classes. Founders Day gave President Dobbins the opportunity to give credit to the McKendree community and the ways he was inspired by their ability to thrive in the face of adversity. “I’m extremely proud of how our McKendree team rallied to execute our mission and provide a high-quality learning experience during this crisis,” he said. “Our students were able to continue their goal of pursuing their college degrees.
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“As we go forward, let’s renew our joy, hope, and passion for the important work we do here.”
