Tom Dowling
(863) 297-1051

DR. HOLDEN WILL BE  INAUGURATED ON SEPT. 7 AS PCC’S 4TH PRESIDENT

8/20/07: Eileen Holden will be inaugurated as PCC’s fourth president on Sept. 7. It will be a full day of festivities that will include community partners, students, faculty, and staff.  

There will be three events:

• A continental breakfast at Historic Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales beginning at 7:30 a.m.
• An 11:30 a.m. luncheon in the Student Center on the Winter Haven campus.
• The inauguration ceremony at 4 p.m. in the Technology Building on the Lakeland campus. A reception will be held after the ceremony.

The word “inauguration” represents a rite of passage marking a formal induction to an office. Collegiate presidential inaugurations originated in the United States in the 17th century and established the custom of formally acknowledging a change in leadership at a school’s highest level. The inauguration of Dr. Holden offers the community a special opportunity to unite in common purpose, to reflect on the past, and to envision a bright future.   

The Inauguration Committee, co-chaired by PCC Trustee Twyla G. Ely and Foundation Director Tracy Porter, is committed to hosting an event that will be reflective of Dr. Holden’s personality and inclusive leadership style.

The event also provides an opportunity for faculty, staff, alumni, college stakeholders, and the community to support PCC students by the establishment of scholarships – one in Eileen Holden’s name. There are three opportunities to support students: The Dr. Eileen Holden Endowed Scholarship, the Greater Lake Wales Scholarship Initiative and the Distinguished Alumni Endowed Scholarship. 

“The Inauguration Committee and I are passionate about using this occasion to raise funds to establish endowed scholarships that will benefit PCC students in perpetuity,” Dr. Holden said. “It is truly an honor to serve as the fourth president of PCC. I am thrilled that members of our community are celebrating with us through their participation and presence at the scheduled events.” 

All events are free and open to the public, but reservations are requested by calling 297-1051.