On Sept. 16, 2022, Dr. Mike Williams was formally inaugurated as the University’s sixth president in nearly a century.
Inauguration was a historic event where our community came together to celebrate the beginning of Dr. Williams’ presidency. It was an exciting opportunity to hear from our new president and express gratitude for our rich heritage and hope for a bright future.
The inauguration was the culmination of a series of events celebrating the beginning of Dr. Williams’ tenure.
Sept. 15, The Legacy Relay began in Morrilton, Arkansas, at Harding’s original campus. Nearly 40 students — led by the cross-country team — ran more than 70 miles to Searcy, just as the founders passed the torch of Christian education on to the next generation. Many students also were positioned at key points along the route to cheer on their classmates.
As the last runner, freshman Abby White, crossed the finish line at the Harding College arch, the University community gathered to welcome her home. Then, as one, everyone walked the final leg of the relay across campus to Bison Park.
Harding’s story has been shaped by men and women with resolute faith and unwavering tenacity who sacrificed greatly to build a school on the foundation of Jesus Christ. For the last century, each generation has been tasked with taking up the mantle and forging ahead, continuing to serve with compassion and boldness.
Many Spirit-led mentors have shepherded students throughout their experiences in the Harding community. Their sacrifices have brought the University into the present. This is the time for current students, faculty and staff, alumni, and administration to decide how the legacy will continue.
On Sept. 16, we began the day in prayer, led by Dr. Mike Justus, Todd Gentry and Cade Williams at a prayer breakfast in Cone Chapel. The celebration in the Benson Auditorium was livestreamed so the entire Harding community could participate in the historic occasion of inaugurating our sixth president. In his inaugural address, Dr. Williams revealed his presidential motto: “Inspired Purpose.”
After the inauguration, a coffee blend, “Inspired Conversations,” was launched with a coffee reception in the C.L. Kay Plaza outside the Benson Auditorium. The day concluded with each academic college holding a celebration with alumni guests. The entire community continued the festivities through Family Weekend.
Read excerpts from his inaugural address and quotes from other speakers in the fall 2022 issue of Harding Magazine.
“A Harding education conjures up deep emotions and has lofty goals. After a time of prayer and reflection, I determined that my presidential motto would be: Inspired Purpose.
As I begin my tenure as the sixth president of Harding University, may we be led, motivated and molded by Inspired Purpose.”
—President Williams
Academic Delegates
Christian College and other college representatives
Government Representatives
1940s Harding Alumnus
1950s Harding Alumni
1960s Harding Alumni
1970s Harding Alumni
1980s Harding Alumni
1990s Harding Alumni
2000s Harding Alumni
2010s Harding Alumni
2020s Harding Alumni
Legacy Relay Subcommittee
Prayer Breakfast, Coffee Launch and Board Reception Subcommittee
Video Production Subcommittee
Audio Visual and Technical Crew
Music Subcommittee
Media Relations Subcommittee
Graphic Design and Marketing Subcommittee
Extra Mile Party and Concert Subcommittee
Volunteer and Ticketing Management Subcommittee
This self-guided tour was created for the inauguration but will continue to be used and expanded as we approach our Centennial Celebration.