October 14,  2004

A large audience of the University community and several elected officials gathered in the Student Activity Center for the annual Founders’ Day convocation on Thursday, Oct. 14. The new Student Activity Center was dedicated during the convocation.

Alabama Gov. Bob Riley, left, greets Butch Ellis, right, as Dr. Robert McChesney looks on prior to the start of the Founders’ Day convocation.

Will L. Phillips Jr. ’00 gave the convocation address. Phillips was SGA president when the SGA senate voted to help fund the cost of the Student Activity Center through an increase in the student activity fee.

University president Dr. Robert McChesney presents a plaque to Will L. Phillips, former SGA president at the University of Montevallo. Phillips, who was the convocation speaker, took time away from his studies at Howard University School of Law to return to Montevallo for the dedication of the Student Activity Center.

Alabama Gov. Bob Riley spoke to the assembled crowd at the Founders’ Day convocation, sharing anecdotes about when his daughter was a student at UM.

Dr. Jim Murphy, assistant professor of English, speaks to the Founders’ Day audience. Murphy was named the 2004 University Scholar at the annual convocation.

Alumni Association award recipients pose for a picture prior to the convocation. Janet Seaman, left, a 1971 graduate, received the Alumna Loyalty Award. David Callaghan, center, received the Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award. Marion Brown, right, a 2003 graduate, received the Outstanding Staff Service Award.

Dr. Joseph Ardovino directs the UM Wind Ensemble during the convocation. The Wind Ensemble played a variety of musical selections for the event.

Justin Gifford, student trustee, and Brooke Thomas found the Crook. For their detective work, they were recognized during the convocation and awarded a monetary prize.

Seniors stand amid falling balloons at the conclusion of the Founders’ Day convocation.

Academic Grand Marshall Dr. Scott Peterson leads the recessional through a sea of balloons at the conclusion of the convocation.

A luncheon buffet, provided by Sodexho, took place in the concourse area after the dedication of the Student Activity Center.