Davila To Be Installed As Ninth Gallaudet President

From: WJLA - Washington,DC,USA - May 9, 2007

Gallaudet University officials will hold installation ceremonies for interim president Robert Davila Wednesday. Nearly five months to the day after the 74-year-old educator was selected interim leader of the nation's premiere liberal arts institution for the deaf and hard of hearing, he will officially become Gallaudet's ninth president.

Since taking the post on December tenth, Davila has been working to improve relations with students and faculty. He's also been trying to overcome problems that have threatened the school's accreditation.

Gallaudet was rocked by turmoil for months after some students and faculty challenged the selection of former provost Jane Fernandes as interim president. Last December, the board withdrew her appointment and brought in Davila, who agreed to serve for 24 months.

Installation ceremonies are set for 3:30 p.m. in the Gallaudet Field House.

© 2007 WJLA-TV