By NICK BUDD
Hays Post

For the first time in more than 25 years, Fort Hays State University will host an inauguration ceremony. Newly elected President Dr. Mirta Martin will be honored during the event on Friday, which will mark the ceremonial beginning of Martin’s term as president. The university last held the ceremony for Dr. Edward Hammond in 1987.

According to Kent Steward, director of University Relations, the ceremony will begin with a processional with faculty and staff similar to a commencement processional. It will include members of the platform party, which includes most of the university administration staff along with the deans of each college. Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback is also scheduled to attend the festivities and offer remarks.

Along with Brownback, former Board of Regents Chairman Fred Logan, current Chairman Kenny Wilk, and other university and student dignitaries are scheduled to make remarks. After the speakers, a ceremony called the investiture will take place, led by Wilk, where Hammond will “hand over” the university mace and presidential medallion to Martin.

The ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum. There will be a reception in Cunningham Hall following the ceremony.