We gather together at the advent of spring
electric blue flowers
brazen pink magnolias
downy buds and greening grass
all declare: new life begins
We gather together on this campus awash in re-birth
not only of earth but
of ideas and ideals
for today we commence a new season at our University
as we inaugurate the President of Illinois Wesleyan
May the chorus of voices this joyful, hope-filled hour
inspire renewal among us and
ready us for the work ahead
When the world deals death
may we proclaim new life
When the world divides
may we proclaim community
When the world doubts the value of critical inquiry
may we proclaim the necessity of our liberal arts
And like the living things across our landscape
that in glorious diversity herald the advent of spring
may we—across disciplines and generations,
religions and cultures—
celebrate this new season of
learning, leadership and life together