Columbia College Chicago formally installed Shantay N. Bolton, PhD, as its 11th president during an investiture ceremony titled “Renaissance Rising: 135 Years Bold” on March 5.
The event marked a significant milestone for the college, as Dr. Bolton is the first woman of color and the first woman in nearly 90 years to lead the institution. The ceremony took place during Women’s History Month and was attended by more than 400 guests, including faculty, staff, students, delegates from other colleges and universities, members of the Board of Trustees, family, friends, and colleagues.
Dr. Bolton said during her speech, “This is our moment of renewal; this is our renaissance. A renaissance is not nostalgia. It is not restoration for restoration’s sake. A renaissance is a disciplined rebirth. It is a return to purpose with greater clarity, courage, and conviction.”
The ceremony blended academic tradition with Columbia’s creative spirit. Faculty and delegates processed in academic regalia before Dr. Bolton entered at the end of the procession with Columbia students to music by Michael Jackson. The program included performances by student musicians and remarks from community representatives who shared their hopes for Dr. Bolton’s presidency.
John M. Holmes, chair of the Board of Trustees, said he was impressed by Dr. Bolton’s conviction about student success and institutional renewal when they first met: “The qualities that impressed the search committee have since been evident in her engagement with faculty and staff, her partnership with the business and civic community of Chicago, and her clear articulation of a forward-looking vision for Columbia College Chicago.”
Other speakers included Karla Rae Fuller representing faculty senate; Diana Vallera from the faculty union; Rachel Horton from Student Persistence; Michael Wojcik representing alumni; Jenna Davis from student government; guest speaker Brian L. Johnson; and Dr. Bolton’s son Brandon G. Phillips.
In closing remarks to attendees after receiving the Presidential Medallion and college mace—symbols designed by Miklos P. Simon—Dr. Bolton called on Columbia to embrace bold choices: “History does not remember institutions that played it safe… So let this be the era when Columbia chose courage… This is our moment.”
Video and photo highlights from Investiture Week are available through Columbia College Chicago.
