Schedule of Events
Festivities for the presidential inauguration, chancellor re-investiture and Charter Day began on Thursday, February 7 and continued with multiple events.
Thursday, February 7
Swem Library's Exhibition with artifacts & documents from the Office of the President & Chancellor
3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Swem Library, Special Collections
Come see documents and artifacts that pertain to the history of William & Mary's Office of the President and Office of the Chancellor. Additionally, items related to King William III and Queen Mary II and the Founding Fathers will be featured alongside some of our most notable first edition rare books, including Isaac Newton's Principia and the Book of Mormon.
Friday, February 8
Future of Work, Knowledge & Service
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Alan B. Miller Hall
For centuries, William & Mary has been innovative — it has changed its course while always staying true to its core mission. At this pivotal moment in William & Mary's 326-year history, the university has yet another opportunity to shape its future trajectory and define its path forward. Learn how the university is preparing students for the future of knowledge, work & service so they are ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world and help change it for the better.
- Future of Work – Entrepreneurship & Design Thinking: 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.
Explore the intersection between curiosity, empathy & creativity in fueling innovation & imaginative problem solving. (Ukrop Innovation & Design Studio and Alan B. Miller Entrepreneurship Center) - Future of Knowledge – Big Data & Artificial Intelligence: 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.
Big data & artificial intelligence are transforming every academic discipline, business & industry. Learn how W&M is at the leading edge of this global revolution. (Brinkley Commons) - Future of Service – Veterans Initiatives & Civilian Connections: 11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
William & Mary has a long tradition of honoring and assisting those who have served. Find out how the university community is addressing issues facing those who have sacrificed for our nation. (Brinkley Commons)
Charter Day, Inauguration & Re-investiture Ceremony
3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Kaplan Arena
While celebrating 326 years since the birth of William & Mary by Royal Charter, Charter Day festivities will serve as the official inauguration for President Katherine A. Rowe and the re-investiture of Robert M. Gates '65, L.H.D. '98 as Chancellor. Tickets are not required.
Fire & Ice Block Party
5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Kaplan Arena, Compton Lot
Following the Charter Day, Inauguration & Re-investiture Ceremony, join the Tribe for a winter festival to celebrate the special blend of tradition and innovation that distinguishes William & Mary.
Charter Day Comedy Performance
9:00 – 10:30 p.m.
Sadler Center, Chesapeake
Actress, comedian and writer Nicole Byer will perform with comedian and writer Sonia Denis opening the show.
Saturday, February 9
William & Mary Alumni Association Annual Meeting
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Sadler Center, Tidewater A
The annual general membership meeting of the Alumni Association will provide an overview of alumni engagement efforts over the last year from Board President Sue Manix '79 and Executive Director Marilyn Ward Midyette '75. We will also look to the year ahead. All alumni are welcome.
Alumni Medallion Ceremony
10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Sadler Center, Commonwealth Auditorium
The William & Mary Alumni Association will recognize William & Mary alumni for their professional accomplishments, leadership, dedication to the community and commitment to their alma mater.
Craig W. Broderick '81, P '16
Nancy Burgess Gofus '75 (posthumous)
Cynthia Casson Morton '77
Christopher B. Powers '73, P '15 (posthumous)
The Fine Art of Disagreement & Diplomacy
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Sadler Center, Commonwealth Auditorium
How can we disagree without being disagreeable? Hear from Chancellor Robert M. Gates '65, L.H.D. '98 and President Katherine A. Rowe as they discuss the role of higher education in encouraging civil discourse around difficult topics and contrasting viewpoints. Jaime Settle, associate professor of government, will moderate the event.
