September 26, 2023

SVSU installs President George Grant Jr in iconic ceremony

George Grant Jr. was formally installed as the fifth president of Saginaw Valley State University during an investiture ceremony today, Tuesday, September 26, at 10:30 a.m. in the Malcom Field Theatre for Performing Arts. Grant assumed the office of president on Jan. 1.  

Investiture, one of the oldest traditions in academia, is a formal ceremony that confers the authority of high office. It typically is held during or at the conclusion of the new president’s first year in office. SVSU is the youngest of Michigan’s public universities, having been founded in 1963; it began as a private college, Saginaw Valley College.

“I am honored to serve as SVSU’s fifth president,” said Grant. “SVSU’s mission, strategic plan and commitment to community engagement align with my values. I look forward to building on the relationships that have been established through the university’s 60 years and continuing to work with faculty, staff, students and the community to make the university the best institution it can be.” 

Brandon Haskett, SVSU professor of music and president of SVSU’s Faculty Association, served as the grand marshal and delivered closing remarks. Master of ceremonies was Deborah Huntley, provost and vice president of academic affairs. Following the invocation by Christopher V. Pryor, pastor of Victorious Believers Ministries in Saginaw, salutations were offered by Haskett; Kathleen Chantaca-Kubczak, SVSU Support Staff Association president; Austin Urlaub, SVSU Student Association President; and Nic Taylor, executive director of SVSU Alumni Relations.  

Raj M Wiener, chair of SVSU’s Board of Control, delivered remarks and presented the presidential medallion, followed by President Grant addressing the assembled guests. 

More information and a link to view the ceremony can be found at svsu.edu/investiture.