Inauguration FAQ

What is the inauguration?

An inauguration is a ceremonial event recognizing the installation of a new president.

Why is CalArts holding an inauguration?

To celebrate and welcome our new president, Ravi S. Rajan, the fourth president of CalArts. The ceremony is held in recognition of a new era for the institution.

Where is the inauguration?

The inauguration begins in the Main Gallery on the CalArts campus at 9 am. A processional will then form and lead everyone to the Wild Beast for performances, followed by the official installation of the new president and his inaugural speech. Because most of the CalArts Inauguration will be outdoors and involve moving to different locations, attendees are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and a sun hat.

When is the inauguration?

The Inauguration is Friday, October 13, 2017, and will begin at 9 am in the Main Gallery on the CalArts campus.

Who is being inaugurated?

Musician and educator Ravi S. Rajan, the 4th president of CalArts.

What is the day's sequence of events?

9:00 am  The Inauguration begins in the Main Gallery on the CalArts campus, which will feature artwork from CalArts students and alumni.  
10:00 am A processional will form in the Main Gallery and lead all attendees in a ceremonial march to The Wild Beast pavilion.
10:15 am Music and dance performances will take place at the Wild Beast.
10:30 am Inauguration Fanfare by David Rosenboom, Dean of The Herb Alpert School of Music
10:35 am Welcome and Introduction by Tim Disney, Chair of the Board
10:40 am Greetings by CalArts alumni, students, staff, and faculty
10:50 am Music and dance performance interlude
11:00 am Inaugural address from President Rajan 
11:20 am Performance interlude - Ty Defoe
11:30 am Guests to follow the recessional to the President's Welcome Lunch on the East Lawn on Tournament Road with a performance by the Latin Jazz Ensemble led by David Roitstein and a special performance by President Rajan who will join on trumpet for a song.
12:00 pm President’s Welcome Lunch served on the East Lawn, located alongside Tournament Road and featuring 10 Food Trucks

Who can attend?

All CalArts students, staff, faculty, alumni, parents, trustees and friends of the Institute are strongly encouraged to attend the Inauguration. While classes are not officially canceled, faculty are encouraged to allow students to attend should they wish.  Staff are also strongly encouraged to attend, and hourly employees will be paid for their time.

Inaugural lunch

The President’s Welcome Lunch will take place at 12 noon and will be held on the East Lawn located alongside Tournament Road, which will be closed to traffic that day. Lunch will feature 10 food trucks, offering a range of different foods, and a spirit of fun and informality, as the luncheon will be an outdoor picnic on the lawn.

Where is CalArts?

California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
24700 McBean Parkway
Valencia, California, 91355

Because much of the Inauguration celebration will be outdoors, requiring attendees to make two short walks, attendees are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sun screen, and a hat.