Jarvis College set to inaugurate new president

HAWKINS — Officials at Jarvis Christian College will kick off a series of events beginning Thursday to commemorate the inauguration of its 11th president, Dr. Cornell Thomas, whose service began at the private, liberal arts college on Jan. 1.

On Thursday, Jarvis students will dine with the president and during an "evening for the president" on Friday, there will be a feature performance by actress and professor Dr. Tommie "Tonea" Stewart.

The inauguration will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, following a prayer and meditation service in the Smith Howard Chapel on campus. Dr. Mike Sacken, professor of educational administration at Texas Christian University, will deliver the presidential address. An inaugural scholarship ball at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, 5701 S. Broadway in Tyler, will conclude the week's events. Tickets for the ball are $50 each.

Dr. Thomas was selected by the college board to succeed Dr. Sebetha Jenkins, who retired, at the end of 2008.

At Oklahoma State University, Thomas was responsible for initiatives to increase diversity and foster equal opportunities.

Before going to Oklahoma State University, he was an assistant professor of educational foundations and administration at Texas Christian Univers-ity. Prior to that, he was a teacher and administrator in Dallas ISD.

Thomas received his bachelor's degree in music education from University of Missouri, St. Louis, a master's degree in music education from Jackson State University and his doctorate in educational administration from Texas A&M University Commerce.

In 1998, Thomas received the Dean's Teaching Award at TCU, and in 2000 was recipient of the Elizabeth Youngblood Proffer Award.

For more information about inaugural events, contact Delilah Hall at 903-769-5702.

THURSDAY: Student dinner with the president 6 p.m., Rand Center Varsity Gym

FRIDAY: "Evening for the President" featuring performance by actress Dr. Tommie Stewart 7 p.m., Smith Howard Chapel, reception immediately following performance in Fellowship Hall.

SATURDAY: Inaugural prayer/meditation service 9 a.m. at Smith Howard Chapel,
Inauguration of Dr. Cornell Thomas 11 a.m., Rand Center Varsity Gym, Reception with receiving line immediately following inauguration, Mirror Room.

Inaugural scholarship ball, 7 p.m. at Tyler Holiday Inn ballroom

The rate for inauguration guests at Holiday Inn is $99 each night. For reservations, call 903-561-5800.