KU News Release

Media advisory: KU to fete chancellor on 14 years of leadership

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas will honor its 16th chancellor, Robert E. Hemenway, on May 2 with a tribute featuring notable speakers, poetry, live music and videos.

The “Hats Off to Hemenway” event, featuring 1968 KU graduate and NBC News journalist Bob Dotson as emcee, will start at 3 p.m. Saturday in the Lied Center. Admission and parking are free. A reception will follow the event.

Hemenway is stepping down as chancellor on June 30 to resume his teaching career and write a book. He became chancellor June 1, 1995, and was formally inaugurated on Feb. 11, 1996. Before coming to KU, he served as chancellor of the University of Kentucky’s Lexington campus. Saturday’s events will focus on the chancellor’s many roles in leading the university and his achievements in the areas of academics, research, service, campus development and university traditions.

The artistic director is Jack Wright, professor of theatre and film and former director of the University Theatre. Sign language interpretation will be provided by the KU Academic Achievement and Access Center.

MEDIA: A pool feed will be provided for broadcast media. Flash photography will be permitted, but only for limited periods.

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.