March 02 , 2009

Inauguration leaves great impression on university community
By Wala’ Al Bakri (BU ’10)

As Brother Peter Bray, Bethlehem University’s new Vice Chancellor, gave his inaugural speech in the school auditorium on Thursday, 19 February 2009, hundreds of Bethlehem university students crowded in the cafeteria, standing around a huge flat screen that was broadcasting the event live. Many of them watched with great attention and said they were hoping Brother Peter would have a successful inauguration.

A first year student, Dema Ziyada, looked up at the screen, smiling as Brother Peter stepped onto the auditorium stage alongside other delegates.

“While I was watching Brother Peter Bray’s inauguration, I noticed a beautiful atmosphere and an excellent organization,” she said.

As well, upstairs in the auditorium, faculty, staff, and honored guests admired the ceremony and congratulated Brother Peter for his new position. “This inauguration is a historical event at the university,” said Dr. Katherine Hennessy, of the English department.

One of the guests, Sister Femia Khoury, from Saint Joseph School, commented on the great organization during the ceremony, noting: “It was very organized and had wonderful speeches!”

Along with the speeches of Brother Peter Bray and the gathered delegates, Brother Peter concluded the ceremony by playing a traditional Maori song, which was a unique and moving experience for staff, faculty and students alike.

Waleed Shomaly, a faculty member from the science department commented “This event is the first of its kind at Bethlehem University.”

Another faculty member from the French department, Franck Martin, said it was nice to hear Brother Peter speak about his roots in New Zealand, especially “his mountain and his river.  Paradoxically,” said Mr. Martin, “he up-rooted two of his roots – a Maori artifact and a traditional Maori song – in order to present them as a token of deep esteem to Bethlehem University.”

At the inaugural reception, Brother Peter stole a moment to relax after the ceremony and commented on the success of the day. 

When asked about how he feels taking up his position as the new Vice Chancellor, he said: “Of course I’m happy, the time here at the University has allowed me to know people better. This position is a big responsibility and I hope to succeed.”

Gauging from the positive reaction of students gazing at the TV screen in the cafeteria, it seems the University community has no doubt he will do so.