The Optimist

Issue date: 8/29/07 Section: News

Media Credit: Katie Gager Tate Stewart, freshman sociology major from Lubbock, waves his "WC" during the singing of the alma mater in the Opening Ceremonies Chapel on Monday in Moody Coliseum.

Media Credit: Katie Gager Jenifer Arnel, senior biology major from Grandbury, plays the saxophone with Big Purple during Opening Chapel on Monday.

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Monday, the school year was kicked off with the university's Opening Day Ceremonies.

This old tradition brought students, faculty, alumni and members of the Abilene community together for an hour of Scripture reading, devotional, motivational speeches from a number of individuals as well as recognition for students and faculty members from an array of states and nations across the globe.

"We couldn't have been happier," said Jennifer Ellison, university events manager. "Everything went over well on our end."

This year's Opening Ceremonies began as always with the Big Purple playing the Olympic anthem as the faculty walked into Moody Coliseum dressed in their alma mater's regalia. After being seated, the Parade of Flags began, and students carrying flags from the 48 states and 54 countries representing students and faculty at ACU marched around the coliseum.

The Master of Ceremonies, Royce Money, president of the university, opened Chapel and commented on how the university eagerly anticipates the event each year. As is tradition, Acts 17 was read by Glenn Pemberton chair of the Department of Bible, Missions and Ministry, and "All Hail the Power of Jesus Name" was lead by Odies Wright, professor
of exercise science.

Craig Churchill, assistant professor of library science, presented
a devotional from the faculty and charged students to expect a lot from this year by telling students to "expect to be challenged by the faculty, challenged to learn and challenged to grow."

This was followed by a speech from Student's Association President Matt and the singing of the alma mater led by Texas State Representative Bob Hunter.

This year's keynote speaker was CE "Doc" Cornutt, chair of the Board of Trustees. Cornutt challenged students to pursue excellence in all arenas of life.

"I am a product of the ACU experience and proud of it, Cornutt said. "Without it I don't think I would have achieved as much with my life,"

Opening Ceremonies is an event that celebrates ACU's heritage and prepares students for the coming year.

"Opening Ceremony shows our new students and reminds old students and faculty about the mission of ACU," said Ellison. "It's a great way to kick off the year."

E-mail Sutton at: les03c@acu.edu

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