UCI Chancellor Michael Drake was inaugurated yesterday at the Bren Events Center. Below is a picture of Chancellor Drake with U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona (left) and UC President Robert Dynes (right). More pictures (including this one) can be found at the Chancellor's web site.



Here's part of his inaugural address:

Our task going forward is simple. Not simple as in easy, but rather simple as in straightforward. In dozens, even hundreds of decisions we each make daily, we have the opportunity to advance ourselves and our community by making those decisions according to our values. We know the values. We agree with them. The task is making sure we create an entity that lives by those values, and I pledge to do everything I can to help make that dream a reality.

I will close with two poems that mean a great deal to me. The first deals with the painful process of learning life’s lessons. It is by Aeschylus.

While we are sleeping, sadness that cannot forget, falls,
Drop by drop upon the heart, until,
In our own despair,
And against our will comes wisdom,
Through the awful grace of God

Life’s lessons can be tough, greatness lies in how we implement what we learn.

The second poem, which has certainly guided me for years, and reflects the transcendent example set for me by my father, and as a special blessing by Brenda’s father, is by Tagore. I recited it on my first day on campus.

I slept and Dreamt of Joy. I awoke to find a life of service. I acted, and behold: Service is Joy.

Working in this place – at this university – is a privilege. When we conduct this work according to our values, it is joy. I am committed to working with you to do our collective best, to get it right. The university’s motto “Let there be light” was aptly chosen to reflect the brilliance of the activity that has taken place, is taking place, and will continue to take place on our campus, and in our communities.

Congratulations, Chancellor Drake. We look forward to many more great years at UC Irvine.