The Inauguration of Daniel J. Ennis
Delta State University’s Ninth President
Dr. Daniel J. Ennis, who assumed office on June 1, 2023, was formally installed as Delta State University’s ninth president on Saturday, February 24, 2024. Dr. Michael T. Benson, President of Coastal Carolina University, delivered the inaugural address. The ceremony was the heart of a series of events that celebrated Dr. Ennis and Delta State University.
Inaugural Ceremony
The Inaugural Ceremony, or investiture, is an academic tradition originating in English universities. The word “investiture” comes from the Latin phrase for “dress in robe,” and this term used in academia refers to the donning of the university’s regalia.
The Inaugural Ceremony is an important institutional event that formally marks a new era of leadership. The event includes many academic traditions and protocols, including an academic procession with delegates from other colleges and universities, as well as faculty of the host institution. The ceremony typically features musical selections, greetings from university and community groups, introduction of the president, an address, the official transfer of institutional leadership, and the singing of the Alma Mater.
Schedule of Events
Monday, Feb. 19
3 – 4 PM
Centennial Lecture
Jobe Hall
Livestream
4 – 4:30 PM
Reception following Centennial Lecture
Jobe Hall
Thursday, Feb. 22
7 – 9 AM
Faculty and Staff Breakfast
H.L. Nowell Student Union, State Room
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Student Luncheon
H.L. Nowell Student Union, Second Floor East Lobby
Friday, Feb. 23
7:45 AM – 2:30 PM
Community Service Day in Rolling Fork
Rolling Fork
6 PM
A Delta Celebration for the Inauguration of Daniel J. Ennis
GRAMMY Museum Mississippi
*By invitation only
Saturday, Feb. 24
8 – 9 AM
Delegate Breakfast
Zeigel Hall
*By invitation only
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Inauguration Ceremony
Bologna Performing Arts Center
Livestream
12 PM
Inauguration Luncheon
H. L. Nowell Student Union, State Room
News and Media
- Feb 28: Dr. Daniel J. Ennis inaugurated as 9th president of Delta State University
- Feb 20: Centennial Lecture ignites Inauguration Week at Delta State University
- Feb 15: Centennial Lecture to kick off week of events leading up to investiture
- Feb 14: Helping Those In Need – Bolivar Bullet
- Feb 9: DSU President Ennis Sets Day of Service for Tornado Victims in Rolling Fork
- Feb 8: Dr. Ennis’ SuperTalk Mississippi Interview
- Feb 2: Ennis to Be Inaugurated as Delta State University’s 9th President
Sponsors
Gold Sponsor
Green Sponsor
White Sponsors
Inaugural Steering Committee
- Claire Cole (Co-Chair), Coordinator of Executive Services, Office of the President
- Chrisa Mansell (Co-Chair), Director, Institutional Research, Effectiveness, and Planning
- Jennifer Ennis, First Lady, Delta State University and Co-Chair, Centennial Commitee
- Hannah Aguzzi, Executive Director, Cleveland-Bolivar County Chamber of Commerce
- Nicholas Bobo, Representative, Student Government Association
- Will Hooker, County Administrator, Bolivar County
- Julie Jackson, Director, Housing and Residence Life
- Shaun Kelly, Instructor, Department of Commercial Aviation
- Amber Kincaid, Delta State Foundation Development Officer
- Ronnie Mayers, Delta State University Retiree
- April Mondy, Assistant Professor, Division of Management, Marketing, and Business Administration
- Becky Nowell, First Lady, City of Cleveland and President, Cleveland Music Foundation
- Susan Perry
- Christy Riddle, Chief Marketing Officer
- Haley Rooks, President, Student Government Association
- Lori Spencer, Alumni and Foundation Chief of Staff
- Tricia Walker, Delta State University Retiree
