NATCHITOCHES – All friends, alumni and supporters of Northwestern State University are invited to join in the events that will celebrate the investiture of Dr. Chris Maggio as the university’s 19th president. Many events are planned for the week of Sept. 11-16 that are free and open to the public.
Monday, Sept. 11
7:45 a.m. – Patriot Day Observation: A ceremony will take place at the flagpoles in the heart of campus between the Long Student Services Center and Caspari Hall. Flags will be lowered to half-staff at 8 a.m. followed by a moment of silence and the playing of the National Anthem.
Thursday, Sept. 14
7:30 p.m. – Demons Come Out at Night Pep Rally: Join NSU students and other Demon fans at Collins Pavilion and Tailgate Field for the annual pep rally that will feature spirit group performances and more. Immediately after, The Molly Ringwalds, the world’s greatest 80s cover band will perform from 8-10 p.m. Food trucks, games, prizes and more are planned.
Friday, Sept. 15
9 a.m. – Mass of Thanksgiving: A special morning Mass at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, 613 Second St., Natchitoches, will feature special readings and participation by NSU vocal ensembles.
11 a.m. – Investiture Ceremony: A procession of faculty and dignitaries will lead the ceremony in A.A. Fredericks Auditorium that formally confers the office of university president to Dr. Maggio. Immediately following, a community reception will take place at the Arnold R. Kilpatrick President’s Residence, 1 Normal Drive where the Maggio family will greet well-wishers. The reception will include refreshments and will feature the talents of NSU students in the School of Creative and Performing Arts.
2:30 p.m. – POW/MIA Day Observation: Annually observed on the third Friday in September, NSU’s Department of Military Science and the 68th Demon Battalion will host a program at the NSU Freedom Tree on the front lawn of the President’s Residence.
Saturday, Sept. 16
2 p.m. – First Lady Jennifer Maggio Service Project – Forks Up for Literacy: A collection site for new and gently used books for children ages 5-15 will be set up at Collins Pavilion. Books will be distributed to schools and youth centers in the region.
3 p.m. – Tailgating: Demon fans are invited to join the NSU Alumni Association’s tailgating activities in and around Collins Pavilion and the Tailgating Field with food, entertainment and family activities. The cost to attend the Alumni Tailgate is $10 for the general public and free for members of the NSU Alumni Association. You can join the Association at northwesternstatealumni.com or pay at the tailgate.
6 p.m. – NSU Football Game: NSU’s first home game of the season will kick off in Turpin Stadium against Southland Conference opponent Lamar University. Tickets can be purchased at the NSU ticket office by calling (318) 357-4268 or visiting nsudemons.com. The Spirit of Northwestern Demon Marching Band halftime show will be at approximately 7:30 p.m.
For more information on events surrounding the Maggio Investiture, visit nsula.edu/investiture where visitors to the site can also send messages of congratulations to the Maggio family.
