St. Mary’s College of Maryland will officially herald the inauguration of Joseph R. Urgo as president on Saturday, March 26, 2011 at 3:30 pm. The inauguration takes place after the Maryland Day ceremony at Historic St. Mary’s City. Inaugural events will include an academic symposium on Friday, March 25, 2011 and entertainment provided by student groups on both nights. Events are free and open to the public.

(3/25) Friday’s Events: (Auerbach Auditorium of St. Mary’s Hall)

• 3 pm: Sustainability-Living Responsibly

• 4:30 pm: Access and Inclusion- Threats and Possibilities

• 8 pm: Keynote Address: Liberal Arts- A Public Trust (Dr. Eduardo Ochoa, U.S. Dept. of Education)

• 10 pm: Student Poetry and Singing

(3/26) Saturday’s Events:

• 10 am: Ribbon-Cutting for St. Mary’s Arboretum Association (Garden of Remembrance)

• 1 pm: Maryland Day Ceremony (Brick Chapel in Historic St. Mary’s City)

• 3:30 pm: Inauguration of President Urgo (Townhouse Green, followed by a reception at Goodpaster Quadrangle)

• 8 pm: Student Variety Show “InURGOration” (Auerbach Auditorium of St. Mary’s Hall)

Forty years ago Maryland embarked on a radical experiment—a public liberal arts college—that speaks to core American ideals and opens to a broader audience the opportunity to experience a liberal arts education.  The accession of a new president provides the College an opportunity to recommit to that foundation as it looks ahead to the next forty years.

Dr. Urgo began his service as president on July 1, 2010, succeeding Jane Margaret O’Brien. He and wife Lesley transitioned from Hamilton College in upstate New York, where he was the Chief Academic Officer. 

St. Mary's College of Maryland, designated the Maryland state honors college in 1992, is ranked one of the best public liberal arts schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. More than 2,000 students attend the college, nestled on the St. Mary's River in Southern Maryland.