A Historic Day for UMD: Welcoming Chancellor Charles T. Nies
The Lake Vermilion Singers, a Northern Minnesota Drum Group, opened the ceremony with the Honor Song, which in Anishinaabe culture, is sung to celebrate and honor accomplishments. Photo by Zada L. Cardinal
Friday, Sept. 5, marked a historic day as the 10th Chancellor of the University of Minnesota - Duluth was inaugurated. Charles T. Nies was sworn in during a ceremony in which over 200 loyal supporters attended in person, and many more had the opportunity to view the event online.
Hosted by Dr. Rebecca Ropers, the ceremony celebrated the character of Chancellor Nies as those who knew him through work and personally took the stand. This included Dr. Lande Ajose, who is a longtime friend of Chancellor Nies. She stated in her speech, “Dr. Nies is uniquely prepared for this moment. He knows that colleges like UMD are anchors in their communities.”
Chancellor Nies shares in the smiles as he participates in the fun photo shoot alongside his family. Photo by Zada L. Cardinal
Among the honored leaders on stage, a surprise guest sat in their midst. Amy Klobuchar, one of the State Senators for Minnesota, participated in the ceremony by offering a touching speech that uplifted the honor and respect she believes Chancellor Nies will continue to bring to UMD. She praised the education system for the opportunities it offers to all students, saying, “Because of education, I stand before you as the granddaughter of an iron ore miner.”
After the ceremony, members of the Cheer Team and guests took the opportunity to take selfies with Champ the Bulldog to commemorate the event. Photo by Zada L. Cardinal
The main event of the ceremony arrived as Rebecca Cunningham, President of the University of Minnesota, rose from her seat to award Dr. Nies with his new title. By placing the medal around his neck and handing him the weighty mace, Chancellor Nies officially became the 10th Chancellor of UMD. “I thank you in advance for the opportunity to work alongside you,” he said in his inaugural speech, “Through connections, we open the possibilities to move compassionately forward.”
To close the ceremony, Student Government Association (SGA) President Remi Foust added her statement in admiration and support for the Chancellor, expressed her gratitude for the efforts he has already made for the student body, and showed her anticipation for continuing to work alongside the Chancellor as he begins a new chapter.
Guests had the opportunity to create their own colorful UMD tie-dye shirts as a part of the interactive tabling. Photo by Zada L. Cardinal
Following the ceremony, the celebration of the new chancellor quickly began as students, attendees, and honored guests made their way into the Romano Gym to enjoy each other's company. With food trucks, Love Creamery ice cream, mural painting, photoshoots and interactive tables, it was impossible to miss the smiles and laughter that filled the space.
It is clear that the Chancellor’s presence on campus is a positive one for many, and the UMD student body is excited to be a part of history in this new chapter of leadership at UMD.