Inauguration of Carson D. Castleman, Ph.D.
The Board of Trustees and the MVNU Community cordially invite you to join us to celebrate the Presidential Inauguration of Carson D. Castleman, Ph.D., as the Eighth President of Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
Celebrate With Us
Please save the date for the formal inauguration of our Eighth President, Carson D. Castleman, Ph.D., on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
A public reception will take place at Foster Hall in Ariel Arena, beginning at 2 p.m.
Alumni, community partners, friends, faculty, staff, and students are invited to join us for this inspiring university tradition!
Presidential Lavaliere
The medallion on the presidential lavaliere presents the university seal on the front and the flame, representing the Holy Spirit, on the reverse. The chains contain links on which the line of presidential succession with the dates of service of each president is engraved.
University Seal
The seal features three panels bearing symbols significant of university life. The Bible emphasizes the primary scripture to learning. The flame captures the essence of the community of faith, the gathering of the learnings drawn together by the power of the Holy Spirit. The cross centrality proclaims the Lordship of Jesus is shaping Christ-like leaders. The globe depicts the world to which students are released for lifelong service. The University’s founding date of 1968 and the motto “To seek to learn is to seek to serve” is engraved near the bottom of the seal.
Mace
Tracing its origin back to medieval times, the mace represents one of the oldest traditions in academia. It symbolizes the academic authority of the University: The Board of Trustees, the faculty, and the administration. The Mount Vernon Nazarene University mace bears on one side the university seal, emblematic of the responsibility for leadership of the institution, and on the other the flame, representing the Holy Spirit who is the source of strength and guidance for that role.
I believe this is the providence of God. When I didn’t know what was happening in my life, God was preparing me for where I am today. So, I believe every position that the Lord has placed me in has given me insight, knowledge, connection, and a direction to be able to grow an organization.
Carson D. Castleman, Ph.D.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s President’s Circle is made up of friends and alumni supporters who contribute $1,000 or more to the university during our current or prior fiscal year (July 1 – June 30). Their gift fuels the University Vision to change the world with the love of Christ.
As our partner in the President’s Circle, you help provide the tools needed today to shape the influencers of tomorrow. Your contribution makes a transformative difference in families, communities and beyond.