The Southwestern Adventist University Board of Trustees, along with hundreds of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members, gathered on October 6 to officially install Dr. Nelu Nedelea as the 27th president of the university.

The ceremony included the Southwestern orchestra, the Southwestern Adventist University Singers, opening prayer by Oklahoma Conference of Seventh-day Adventists President Daniel Ortega, a historical review by Vice President of Academics Dr. William Smith, a welcome by Keene Chamber of Commerce President Mickey Johnson (Class of ‘78), a welcome by Student Association President Tyler Cabansag (Class of ‘27), a welcome by Elder Mike Tucker (Class of ‘74) on behalf of the Alumni Association Board, a welcome from faculty and staff by Honors and QEP Director Dr. Renard Doneskey, and a welcome and scripture reading from Keene SDA Church lead pastor Michael Gibson (Class of ‘16).

Dr. Elton DeMoraes, president of the Southwestern Union of Seventh-day Adventists and the Chair of the Board of Trustees, confirmed Dr. Nedelea as the 27th president. “This is a significant and historic day in the life of this institution,” proclaimed DeMoraes. “Through thoughtful and prayerful consideration, the Board of Trustees has chosen Dr. Nedelea to lead Southwestern Adventist University at this time. We do so with confidence and conviction that God has called him to this important responsibility. We pledge our prayers, our partnership, and our support as Dr. Nedelea leads.” DeMoraes bestowed the presidential medallion on Dr. Nedelea. He then prayed over Dr. Nedelea and his family, dedicating them to the service of the university.

“We are preparing students for a future we cannot see,” shared Nedelea in his inaugural address. “We cannot make their choices for them. We cannot decide what God will call them to do.” Nedelea went on to share a story about two runners – one of whom was blind and relied on his friend to steer him through the course. He shared his plan that SWAU staff and faculty would run beside the students. To do that, he said they all had a responsibility to keep up.

“We have to keep learning too – fast enough to excel, fast enough to guide them. Running fast is not the same as running in the right direction. Our students need a faith that reminds them who they are and Whose they are. They must run for themselves, but they do not have to run alone,” pledged Nedelea.

The University Singers ended the ceremony with an arrangement of How Great Thou Art by Dan Forrest. Dr. Carlton Byrd, President of the Southwest Region Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, had the benediction, praying for protection and guidance in wisdom and understanding for Dr. Nedelea.

The inauguration ceremony is available for viewing here.

 

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For 133 years, Southwestern Adventist University has offered Christian education. A small comprehensive university, the beautiful campus is in Keene, Texas, about 20 minutes south of Fort Worth. Southwestern Adventist University offers personable professors, numerous programs including business, music, education, nursing, master’s programs, and many ways for students to get involved both on campus and abroad. With a diverse student body that includes international students from dozens of countries and an average student/teacher ratio of 11:1, Southwestern Adventist University offers a uniquely diverse and personal college experience.