by Eliza Rohda ‘26
On Friday, September 26, York University celebrated the inauguration of its 22nd president, Dr. Timothy Westbrook. President Westbrook and his wife, Dr. Anessa Westbrook, answered the call to come to York University earlier this year, bringing with them a history of excellence in higher education and mission work.
Following the pre-inaugural festivities on Thursday, which included a special prayer convocation held in YU’s Prayer Chapel, attendees gathered in the Campbell Activity Center Friday morning for the inauguration ceremony. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and guests came to witness the historic moment as President Westbrook officially stepped into his new role. Among the university’s sister-schools were representatives from Harding University, Freed-Hardeman, Faulkner, Abilene Christian, Rochester Christian, and Oklahoma Christian.
During the ceremony, charges were made to the president by various representatives of York University. Eliza Rohda (‘26) spoke on behalf of the student body, while Dr. Erin DeHart (‘94) gave the charge from faculty and staff. Dr. Bill Pink (‘87) represented the alumni, before Board Chair Dr. R. Wayne White (‘63) gave his remarks on behalf of the trustees and placed the medallion of office on President Westbrook.
In his address to the university and its guests, President Westbrook encouraged his audience to “Learn and Live the York Experience.” He highlighted York University’s history, detailing the long-held collaboration with the city of York and the Churches of Christ. In addition to the past, he discussed York University's present, emphasizing the memories that are being made right now as students, faculty and staff unite to pursue faith-based higher education.
“From the past, present, and into the future, we will urgently work together to keep our mission intact,” President Westbrook said. “We will work together to ensure our students are prepared for the future. We will envision a bolder and bigger York University that cherishes the ‘York Experience’ of the past while not being afraid to create new ‘York Experiences’ for the future.”
Following the inauguration ceremony, attendees gathered at Larsen Commons for a reception. A recording of the ceremony can be found here.