PRESS RELEASE -- November 13, 2007
Martin officially installed as MVNU's sixth president
MOUNT VERNON, Ohio -- Dr. Daniel J. Martin, officially installed as MVNU’s sixth president in an Inauguration Ceremony on Nov. 9, 2007, emphasized movement in his inaugural address.
With the theme of “The Mark of Mount Vernon,” he spoke to the campus community and special guests, reminding them that MVNU is a Deuteronomy 6 community, drinking from wells they did not dig and eating from vineyards they did not plant. Recognizing the work and dedication of those who had come before, he went on to describe the many marks of Mount Vernon.
First Mark
The first mark was Christ-centered education. "This University is called to provide a context of encounter with ultimate truths. Truths to form and inform the people we are to be; resulting in a call to impact the world in which we live--to leave a Mark in this world through living a Christ-like life and engaging in lifelong service."
Second Mark
The second mark included that of a scholar, that of Christ-likeness and that of a servant, as MVNU is a community seeking to learn, learning to serve and serving with love. It is a mark that features integrative, critical and reflective thinking; an appreciation of the artistic expression; and respect for all aspects of diversity. It is also one of a commitment to serving God and humanity, locally and abroad, so that others may see and desire Christ’s love in us.
Third Mark
Martin outlined four objectives for the future in discussing the third mark, so that MVNU may become a leading university of first choice for students seeking an education at a Christ-centered institution, will be known for inspiring personal life transformation and will be identified by its pursuit of excellence in all things:
• Renew and deepen our academic life
• Achieve fiscal and facility resource growth
• Expand and deepen institutional influence, reach and relationships
• Develop a premier student experience
Each of the objectives included specific goals and initiatives, some of which are identifying how innovation and technology can enhance programs, actively assessing programs, establishing a Center for Christian Leadership, significantly raising retention and graduation rates, a $2-million renovation/expansion of an art education center in downtown Mount Vernon, actively seeking to hear the voice of students and encouraging each student to participate in an in-depth cross cultural experience. You can read about all of the initiatives in the full version of Martin’s inaugural address, or listen to the podcast, at www.mvnu.edu/inauguration.
Along with campus and community, delegates from 42 colleges and universities across the nation were present to witness the Rite of Investiture. Representatives from key constituencies came forward to pledge support and Board Chair Dr. David Downs and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Randie Timpe presented Martin with the symbols of office: the presidential medallion and a Bible.
Martin closed his inauguration speech with the promise, “Mark my words: We will move,” but maintained the importance of moving forward together, guided by the mission and inspired by the vision. “We have wells to dig and vineyards to plant…We must look to God’s promise, lean on God’s provision and move forward in bold faith."
During Homecoming weekend, Martin met with more than 500 alumni to hear about their MVNU experiences and to discuss how they can be involved in continuing the mark of Mount Vernon. Former Board of Trustees chair, Dr. David Wilson, summed it up in his dedicatory prayer during the ceremony: “…attempting great things for Him; expecting great things from Him.” Moving ourselves…to move the world.
For more information on the Inaugural events, visit www.mvnu.edu/inauguration.
About MVNU
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students and working adults. U.S. News & World Report ranks MVNU in the top 50 Best in the Midwest (Bachelor’s-Comprehensive) institutions for the third year in a row. With a 400-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and eight additional satellite Adult and Graduate Studies campuses throughout the state, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education to more than 2,670 students from 23 states and five countries/U.S. territories.
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