News Archives - 2006

The Inauguration of Paul C. Pribbenow, 11th president of Augsburg College

Oct. 20, 2006

Augsburg's new season of leadership officially began Friday, Oct. 20 with the inauguration of Paul C. Pribbenow, Augsburg's 11th president. The ceremony took place in the Si Melby Hall with The Rev. Mark Hanson, presiding Bishop of the ELCA, officiating. During the investiture, invited members of the clergy and other people of faith surrounded the dais as a sign of spiritual support. These members of the greater Augsburg community represented the rich diversity of faiths on the campus and in the neighborhood.

"This is a great day in the history of Augsburg College," Hanson said. "A significant day in Augsburg's future. Paul (Pribbenow) brings great wisdom and imagination to Augsburg, which fits with the theme, "AGES of Imagination."

Throughout the four days of inaugural events, which began Wednesday, Oct. 18, Augsburg celebrated its calling as a college, imagining its future around the themes of "AGES"—abundance, generosity, engagement, and service. The various activities included: chapel talks by President Pribbenow reflecting on the theme “AGES of Imagination,” Abundance Lunches for students, faculty and staff, at which the community was invited to bring donations for the Brian Coyle Community Center, and various Round Table discussions. Thursday night invited guests were treated to an evening of music and hors d’oeuvres "Under the Tent."

On Saturday inauguration came to a close with community service projects in the Cedar Riverside neighborhood in the morning and an Auggie Spirit Zone event in the afternoon.