As students return from summer break and attend all of their first classes for the semester, Cabrini had many other events going on throughout the day.
Deemed “University Day,” Aug. 29 was filled with different ceremonies and activities for students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees and other community members to participate in as a celebration for the transition from Cabrini College to Cabrini University over the summer.
“I’m excited for Cabrini expanding the way that it is,” Erin Kelly, a senior accounting and finance double major, said. “Especially being a university, I imagine bigger and better things in the future.”
The morning kicked off at 9 a.m. with a brief opening ceremony outside of the mansion, which now yields a festive “Cabrini University” banner under the traditional sign. Throughout the day, students could earn free “university swag” by spotting places where it still said college instead of university.
One of the most well-attended events of the day was the pavilion ribbon cutting, which was the official opening of the new Dixon Center Pavilion, which had been renovated throughout the past year.
“I came to experience the ribbon cutting because it represents the next step of Cabrini University,” Sal Ardizzone, a senior accounting major and the vice president of the student government association, said.
Gregory Robinson, a Cabrini alumnus and previous student government president, said, “I was a part of the student organization that spearheaded this amazing edition to Cabrini College, so it was great to see it actually come to life so I had to come back and visit.”
Many spoke at the ribbon cutting, including Cabrini’s President, Dr. Donald Taylor, who himself cut the ribbon at the ceremony. Also, some athletes spoke at the ceremony about their excitement to have the new facilities.
Men’s basketball coach Tim McDonald has already felt positive effects for his team from the opening of the new facilities. “It’s been a huge asset for our program, not only for the current students but also in the recruiting process. So, I’m coming out today to really thank the people who made this possible,” McDonald said.
Following the ribbon cutting, the day closed with a “Celebrating U” reception including music, food, beverages and free Cabrini University giveaways like bags, sunglasses and pennants. President Taylor spoke at the event with some closing remarks about the day.
“Tonight’s really not about speeches, it’s about us celebrating as a community, the Cabrini community, and there’s a lot of buzz and excitement,” Taylor said. “We have a really bright future.”
Before closing his speech with an energetic toast to the university transition, Taylor reiterated that the transition does not change the morals or principles of Cabrini at its core.
“As we continue to evolve and grow, we will always remain dedicated and true to the mission and values of the institution and we will always honor Mother Cabrini and the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart, who are really at the heart of everything this institution stands for,” Taylor said. “So here’s cheers to Cabrini University- past, present and future, go Cavaliers!”
