U. inaugurates Rodin as president

Glen Rock High School '93 Glen Rock, N.J. University President Judith Rodin and Provost Stanley Chodorow, along with members of the Class of 1998, have just completed their freshman year at the University. And although the two administrators both arrived on campus last summer, they officially began their term together with a huge two-day inaugural celebration in October. The event, which cost the University $180,000, included academic symposia, an inaugural dinner, an academic procession, a full ceremony and an open celebration on College Green. The entire inauguration was a lavish, celebratory display of University pride and hope for the future. "The University can show everybody that you can do it all, have it all," Rodin said at the party following the ceremony. Dignitaries from other universities and several former University presidents attended the events, along with alumni, faculty, students and members of the University's Board of Trustees. The official inaugural ceremony took place in Irvine Auditorium. Rodin's inaugural address focused on undergraduate education, the University's relationship with Philadelphia and the University's history. Before and after the inauguration, Rodin enjoyed a smooth transition period, especially compared to that of former President Sheldon Hackney. Hackney came to the University in 1981 amidst controversy, unhappy constituents, a financial crisis, resignations and the pressing need for policy and personnel decisions. Rodin had the support of the entire University community when she came to campus and the University is not faced with major financial difficulties. Instead, Rodin was able to spend her first year in office by beginning several projects and unveiling her plans for the University's future. Rodin, a University alumna, is a well-known research psychologist who specializes in eating disorders. She has a 13-year-old son, Alex Neijelow, from a previous marriage. She is currently married to Paul Verkuil, and the couple lives in the presidential mansion, Eisenlohr Hall, located at 38th and Walnut streets. Chodorow and his wife, Peggy, have been married 32 years and have two sons.