Bob Marley’s “One Love” was performed by the John Wineglass trio, accompanied by a student choir as the procession moved to place. The honored guests were dressed in robes and sat center stage as Wenda Fong, chair of the California State University (CSU) Board of Trustees, introduced the first speaker, Kanyon Coyote Woman Sayers-Roods. Her song and speech honored the indigenous peoples of Rumsen and Esselen, the first settlers on what is now California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB).
This was the scene as CSUMB held the Investiture of President Vanya Quiñones Friday Feb. 10 at the CSUMB World Theater.
The theater was packed with staff, alumni, local dignitaries and, of course, Monte the Otter. Among those in attendance were Interim Chancellor of California State University Jolene Koester; Pace University President Marvin Krislov; presidents and trustees of CSUs, Hartnell College and Monterey Peninsula College. Guests also included Marina Mayor Bruce Delgado, Seaside Mayor Ian Oglesby, Monterey County District 5 Supervisor Mary Adams, and Monterey Mayor and CSUMB Alumnus Tyller Williamson. A prerecorded message of Quiñones family celebrating her success was also played.
“We offer Dr. Quiñones our unequivocal endorsement, sincere congratulations and our very best wishes for enduring success,” said Fong.
Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Katherine Kantardjief congratulated Quiñones, “In all of our conversations, whether one on one or with fellow cabinet members, she has an unwavering passion and focus on our students.”
Krislov spoke of his experience working with Quiñones at Pace, where she was provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs before coming to CSUMB this fall.
“I know that Vanya can balance budgets because I watched her do it,” Krislov said. “I know that Vanya can manage a crisis, because our entire university relied on her through the pandemic. And I know that more than anything else, Vanya is committed to student success.”
Between speakers, there were performances of jazz, mariachi, hula, choir and colorguard. American Sign Language interpreters were present at the front of the stage through the ceremony.
