Kentucky State University officials honor former president during ribbon cutting ceremony

Kentucky State University officials honor former president during ribbon cutting ceremony

Posted on March 8, 2019

A former Kentucky State University president’s legacy will live on through a new addition to campus that was conceived during her tenure.

The Kentucky State University Board of Regents, Kentucky State University President M. Christopher Brown II, faculty, staff, students and community members honored the legacy of Dr. Mary Evans Sias during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Mary E. Sias Pedestrian Walkway that connects the north and south side of campus.

“This is an opportunity to celebrate the rich history and legacy of our great institution,” President Brown said.

Sonia Sanders, director of public engagement, reflected on the history of the pedestrian bridge.

“We stand here today because Dr. Sias is a visionary leader,” Sanders said. “It is her foresight that made the pedestrian walkway that we and future generations of students will stride across possible. For the safety and security of our students, Dr. Sias advocated for this pedestrian walkway.”

Dr. Sias said finding out she would be honored was a rare surprise.

“It’s very rare that I’m surprised about anything,” Sias said. “When I got the call from President Brown, to say I was surprised is an understatement. He will tell you. Rarely has anything pleased me as much. I appreciate this. This is an honor.”

President Brown and the Board of Regents presented Dr. Sias with her chain of office, a resolution, and a replica of the plaque that will adorn the pedestrian walkway.

Family and guests from all over the country were in attendance.

Afterwards, attendants toured the pedestrian walkway, which features a tower and elevator and provides direct access to J.S. Hathaway Hall and the Carl M. Hill Student Center.