Inauguration

Inauguration Week

Inauguration Week from March 22-27, 2026

Join us for the Investiture Ceremony of Dr. William M. Downs

Schedule Of Inauguration Week Events

Sunday, March 22 

7:00 PM – Worship Service 

A worship service celebrating the inauguration of the University’s 6th President. 

Location: Butler Chapel 


Monday, March 23 

7:00 PM – Academic Lecture

Dr. Peter L. Francia
Director, Center for Survey Research
Professor, Department of Political Science
East Carolina University

Location: Student Union Theater


Tuesday, March 24 

All Day – Wiggins Memorial Library Academic Symposium 

Location: Wiggins Memorial Library, Student Union Ballrooms

5:00 PM – Awards Ceremony (Keynote by Dr. William M. Downs) 

Location: Student Union Ballrooms

7:30 PM – Fine Arts Presentation (choral presentation with international repertoire) 

Location: Scott Concert Hall


Wednesday, March 25 

11:00 AM – Founder’s Day Celebration including Founders Oak Dedication

Location: Academic Circle 

4:10 PM  – Honors Recital

Location: Scott Concert Hall

8:00 PM  – Movie Night

Location: Union Theater 


Thursday, March 26 

Day of Campbell and Community Service

Register to participate

5:00 PM – Student Cookout with the Downses

Location: Saylor Park

6:00 PM – Concert

Location: Saylor Park


Friday, March 27 

2:00 PM – Investiture Ceremony for the 6th President of Campbell University, Dr. William M. Downs 

Location: Convocation Center 

Reception to follow (open to all)

Location: Oscar N. Harris Student Union

 

 

Meet The President

“Dr. Downs represents everything we hoped to find in Campbell University’s next president. With his extensive experience, deep personal faith, and infectious energy, he is uniquely qualified to elevate Campbell to new heights, while upholding our mission and values.” — Gene Lewis, Trustee Chairman

Meet Dr. Downs