Otterbein College Inaugurates 20th and First Female President Kathy A. Krendl

WESTERVILLE, Ohio, Oct 23, 2009 /PRNewswire-USNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The inauguration of Kathy A. Krendl as 20th president of Otterbein College on Friday, Oct. 23, was a celebration of Otterbein's roots and a glimpse into its future. Following touching remarks from representatives of faculty, staff, alumni, students and friends, accented with the music of Otterbein's symphony and combined choirs, a humbled President Krendl took the stage to share her reflections on Otterbein's past through the stories recounted to her by students and alumni representing all generations. She discussed the connections she has seen between the past, present and future, between the generations of Cardinals, and between Otterbein and communities both local and across the world. Finally, she called on members of the Otterbein family to act to bring about a better Otterbein and a better world.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091023/DC98265 ) At the inauguration, President Krendl was entrusted with several treasures of the College, including Philip William Otterbein's Bible, the original key to Towers Hall, the medical sword of Dr. Thomas McFadden, the book of the minutes of the founding of The Otterbein University of Ohio, the mace and the flambeau.

Ohio Board of Regents Chancellor Eric D. Fingerhut gave a keynote address to the value of higher education and its historic past in Ohio. Remarks were also delivered by Otterbein Board Chairman Tom C. Morrision, friend of President Krendl Sandra J. Anderson and West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church Bishop Bruce R. Ough.

The inauguration was followed by a "zero waste reception" donated by Bon Appetit, the college's food service. Over 2,000 people gathered after the ceremony to enjoy food, friends, and camaraderie and to celebrate with President Krendl.

Following the luncheon, the day's events included tours of new and renovated campus spaces, including the Science Center, Equine Science Center, President's Gallery in Towers Hall, Miller Gallery, Frank Museum of Art and Center for International Education and Global Engagement. A special musical performance to honor President Krendl was presented by the Department of Music at the Church of the Master United Methodist Friday afternoon.

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