Davidson College holds ceremony for new leader

Davidson College honored its new president in an inauguration ceremony on campus Saturday. Tom Ross, a 1972 Davidson College graduate, was sworn in as the college's 17th president before a few thousand students, parents, faculty members and staff members at the Baker Sports complex.

Ross said new college presidents are most frequently asked about their vision for their institution. What the questioners often mean, he said, is, "What do you plan to change?"

Ross said changes are bound to happen at the college and in the community, including population growth, shifts in demographics and advances in technology. But, he said, the larger question is how Davidson can address the changes while staying true to Davidson values: academic rigor, excellence in teaching, the role of faith, respect for difference and community service.

Part of the ceremony included the ringing of what is thought to be the first bell of the college. The event program said it was cast in bronze during the early 1800s, found on the property of Arthur Edward Armour of Davidson and returned to the college by descendants of Louisa Susan Armour Gudger.

Davidson College trustee Paul Leonard, who was chairman of the presidential search committee, said Ross is known for numbering how many days he's worked.

It's true, Ross said, saying Saturday was day No. 88.

"I count the days so that each and every day I remember how blessed I am" to be the college president, he said.

Then he quipped that he worries there is a 90-day probationary period that lasts until Monday.

"I want to make sure I make it past there."

Saturday's presidential inauguration also doubled as Davidson's Fall Convocation. Davidson seniors wore their graduation caps and gowns for the first time, and awards were presented to faculty members and students.