MONMOUTH, Ill. — Monmouth College celebrated a major milestone today as Dr. Patricia H. Draves was officially inaugurated as the institution’s 15th president. The ceremony drew hundreds of attendees, including current students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members.
Draves began her tenure as president on July 1, but her history with Monmouth College goes back much further.
She and her husband, Jeff Draves, worked in the college’s chemistry department from 2002 to 2006. In her inauguration speech, Dr. Draves expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the college.
“It is not just a privilege to be your president; it is an honor to be entrusted with the legacy of Monmouth College,” Draves said, noting the college's strong foundation built on scholarship, leadership, community and service. “That legacy here at Monmouth is built on transforming students.”
Rodger Haynes, Monmouth's athletic director and a member of the class of 1982, spoke on behalf of the faculty during the ceremony. He emphasized the excitement surrounding Dr. Draves' leadership and the future of the institution.
“It’s my hope to see Monmouth continue as an outstanding institution that produces graduates ready to take on the world,” Haynes said. “I’m also interested to see the greatness Monmouth College can achieve under the direction of President Draves.”
Haynes added that he is optimistic about what lies ahead under Draves' leadership.
“President Draves, good luck, and best wishes for the future.”
Monmouth College officials noted that Draves, a veteran in higher education, was unanimously chosen by the Board of Trustees following an extensive national search.