Investiture
September 10, 2005: Dr. Flavius C. Killebrew officially becomes the 10th president of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

In the elegant setting of the new Performing Arts Center, following a colorful processional of University faculty and delegates from other universities in full academic regalia, Dr. Flavius C. Killebrew was invested as the tenth president of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi on Saturday, September 10.

Provost Sandra S. Harper served as Chief Marshal for the investiture ceremony, which featured stately brass quintet, choral and vocal selections.

Greetings from national officials were delivered by U.S. Representative Solomon P. Ortiz and representatives from the offices of U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and U.S. Senator John Cornyn.

State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa delivered greetings from the state, and Mayor Pro Tempore Melody Cooper represented the City of Corpus Christi.

The inaugural address was delivered by Barry B. Thompson, chancellor emeritus of the Texas A&M University System. Dr. Killebrew was presented for investiture by John D. White, chairman of the A&M System Board.

The actual investiture, in which the official University Medallion was placed around Dr. Killebrew’s neck, was performed by Chancellor Robert D. McTeer, Jr.

In his address, Dr. Killebrew commented that while we honor the past and celebrate the present, it is the decade ahead that must capture our attention today, calling the event a celebration about the future. His main message addressed excellence, engagement and expansion, the three unifying concepts of the University’s Momentum 2015 strategic plan. He also stressed the importance of remaining true to a strong sense of values.

Dr. Killebrew asumes the role of the president of the University through the symbolic acceptance of the Presidential Medallion.

Dr. Killebrew accepts a specially commissioned gavel from State Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa.