During a time when the resources of both the state and east central Indiana are constrained, Indiana University East Chancellor Nasser H. Paydar has decided to forgo a traditional chancellor installation ceremony. An installation, with its pomp and circumstance, marks the beginning of a new chapter for a campus and can be a long, lavish affair.

“I would rather use these funds in a way that will have a lasting impact for our campus and community,” Paydar said. “We hope that the community and our alumni agree and that they will want to show their support for this initiative.”

Instead of a holding a chancellor installation ceremony, IU East will designate these funds – and invite community members to participate with support – for a campus beautification initiative, which will include a sculpture garden with works from student, faculty, and regional artists.

“These enhancements to the campus will signify a new beginning, and at the same time, pay tribute to Richmond’s rich tradition in the arts as well as our exceptional educational programs in the arts,” Paydar said. “IU East is already a beautiful place; adding public art through sculpture will create an outdoor learning environment for both the campus and the community to enjoy.”

The sculpture garden and other campus improvements will be a physical representation of IU East’s leadership role in enhancing the intellectual, cultural, and economic vitality of east central Indiana.  The initiative will also support the IU East’s efforts to build a more vibrant campus life with its rapidly growing enrollment and increasing number of students attending directly from high school.

Plans for the sculpture garden will be unveiled during a public reception at IU East on June 16, 2:30-4:30 p.m. on the Springwood Hall lawn. Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie will preside over a formal program at 3:15 p.m.  Reservations for the celebration can be made online at www.iue.edu/celebrate or by calling (765) 973-8419.  Contributions to the campus beautification project can also be made online at www.iue.edu/celebrate. 

Paydar was appointed interim chancellor of IU East on July 1, 2007, and became chancellor on January 1, 2009.