Charge to the President
W. Russell Ramsey, BBA ’81,
Chairman, GW Board of Trustees

Dr. Knapp, you are now the leader of a University with an
outstanding faculty, enthusiastic students, loyal and
hardworking staff, committed trustees, and proud alumni.
It is also a University with very high aspirations. And
our selection as you as our 16th President testifies to
our confidence in your ability to help us achieve them.

In undertaking this great challenge, you will enjoy the
support and cooperation of all parts of the GW community,
a family with a shared sense of purpose that transcends
each of us as individuals and connects us to the
University’s mission and its ever-expanding goals. You
have devoted your career to the profession of education,
an honorable career. As Professor, Dean, Provost, and now
President.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees of George Washington
University, I charge you to take your keen understanding
of history, your great appreciation for the academic
vocation, your knowledge of the world, your sly sense of
humor, your love of learning, your personal integrity,
and to combine all of them for the benefit of this
ancient and honorable university. Welcome to GW.
Good luck and Godspeed.

Dr. Knapp, it is also my very great pleasure to confer
upon you now, the official symbol of the Presidency of
the George Washington University. You have previously
received other symbols, including the academic gown and
hood you wear today, and the President’s Medallion
completes your academic regalia and officially welcomes
you to the ranks of the University’s Presidents.