PLAINVIEW — In a ceremony filled with tradition, faith, and celebration, Dr. Donna Hedgepath was officially inaugurated as the 14th President of Wayland Baptist University this morning in Harral Memorial Auditorium on the university's Plainview campus.
Surrounded by family, friends, and distinguished guests, Dr. Hedgepath pledged her commitment to leading Wayland into a new era of innovation and faith-driven service.
The ceremony began with a call to worship featuring “My Tribute” by Andraé Crouch, led by Dr. Tony Cunha, Dean of the School of Music at Campbellsville University in Kentucky. Following an invocation by Dr. Twyla Hernández, Professor of Christian Missions and Director of Faith Ministry at Campbellsville, scripture readings were delivered by Fr. Jeremy Trull of the Catholic Diocese of Lubbock and Rev. Richard Miller, Pastor of Happy Union Baptist Church in Plainview.
Dr. Cindy McClenagan, Wayland’s Vice President of Academic Affairs, called the ceremony to order, setting the stage for a series of greetings by Mark Jones, Chairman of the Wayland Board of Trustees; Cooper Trolinger, President of Wayland’s Student Government Association; Dr. Julio Guarneri, Executive Director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas; Sarah Denning, a Wayland alumna; Julie Bowen, Wayland Registrar; and the Hon. Pete Laney, former Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives
Musical performances by the Campbellsville University Faculty Ensemble and the Wayland Inauguration Choir added an inspiring tone to the event.
Charges to the presidency were given by Dr. Joe Hopkins, President of Campbellsville University; Grant Litton, Dr. Hedgepath’s nephew; Dr. Paul Armes, President Emeritus of Wayland Baptist University; and Dr. H. Keith Spears, Chancellor Emeritus of Campbellsville University.
The investiture ceremony included the installation of Dr. Hedgepath by Mark Jones, a dedicatory prayer by Dr. Julio Guarneri, and the formal presentation of the president by Dr. Jeanette Parker, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs at Campbellsville University.
In her inaugural address, titled “Pioneering the Future,” Dr. Hedgepath reflected on Wayland’s legacy and outlined her vision for the university. Emphasizing Wayland’s pioneering spirit, she highlighted key moments in the university’s history, such as its voluntary integration in 1951, the achievements of the Hutcherson Flying Queens basketball team, and its innovative academic initiatives.
Dr. Hedgepath spoke passionately about her plans to advance Wayland’s mission, including upgrading technology, enhancing student success programs, and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. She also underscored her commitment to faith-based leadership, stating, “Wayland must meet the needs of an ever-changing workforce — and we can and will do this through creative programming and degree planning.”
Dr. Hedgepath closed her remarks with a call to action for the Wayland community, urging everyone to work together to shape a brighter future. “Let us commit to a future where our university is not just a place of learning, but a beacon of progress and, most importantly, hope. Together, we will pioneer solutions that transcend boundaries, inspire change, and create impact on a global scale.”
The inauguration of Dr. Hedgepath marks a historic moment for Wayland. As the first female president in the institution’s history, her appointment reflects Wayland’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation.
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