President's Convocation honors the old, rings in the new
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Held in Allen Arena, the Convocation was attended by university students, campus school students, faculty, staff and community members.
Lipscomb’s time-honored traditions were incorporated into the ceremony, with a display of images from historic moments in Lipscomb’s history, from the first establishment of the university, then known as Nashville Bible School, 116 years ago, to the first Singarama performance.
A review of Lipscomb’s past logos ushered in the announcement of Lipscomb’s new logo: a shield displaying a cross and flame.
“We wanted people to understand that we are first a Christian organization,” Dr. Lowry said of the cross in the logo. “The shield reminds us that we are also an academic institution.
“The flame represents our search for truth, our search for wisdom, and the power of God in our lives.”
Dr. Lowry highlighted Lipscomb’s bright future with several announcements that had students cheering:
• A 2006 freshman class that is 20 percent larger than two years ago;
• $170,000 investment by Follett in redesigning the on-campus book store;
• Advancement in obtaining funds for a new parking garage; and
• The inking of a deal with Starbucks to locate in the student center this year.
Academic traditions were incorporated by faculty proceeding into the ceremony dressed in regalia and accompanied by the music of Nashville Pipe and Drum. The faculty were asked to teach their 11 a.m. classes Monday in academic regalia and to explain to students the symbolism of the colors and design.
Lipscomb alumnus Blake Parker of Harpeth Hills Church of Christ lead worship during the chapel service.
The Lipscomb University Chorus, directed by Dr. Gary Wilson, and the David Lipscomb High School Chorus, directed by Robert King, performed two songs together at the ceremony.
Dr. Lowry concluded with a new, more positive take on the oft-told story of the professor who tells his students on day one of classes to look to the right and left and note the face of their neighbor, because by the end of the school year, only one of the two would remain.
“I say look to the left and right, and notice that you are in the company of very talented people,” Dr. Lowry said, quoting a Yale dean from 1996. “Rejoice in one another’s gifts and the opportunities you will receive together.”