Hundreds of people visited Ohio University Southern Campus Tuesday – enjoying free food, greeting new dean Dan Evans and checking out campus programs.

Thursday, July 05, 2001

Hundreds of people visited Ohio University Southern Campus Tuesday – enjoying free food, greeting new dean Dan Evans and checking out campus programs.

Deemed a success by faculty and community residents alike, the "Red, White and Blue Celebration" began with an open house and tours at 1 p.m. Faculty-grilled burgers, lemonade, root beer floats, educational displays and Dixieland music rounded out the evening – an evening that served as an old fashioned Fourth of July celebration a day early.

"I’m absolutely overwhelmed," Dr. Evans said, addressing the crowd. "What a wonderful welcome."

Earlier, the new dean spent some time shaking hands as visitors made their way among tables of information about the university’s degree programs like electronic media and the therapeutic riding program.

It’s wonderful to have him at OUSC’s helm, said Art Shafer, an OUSC neighbor and a person who has known the dean since childhood.

"We had a terrific person (in Bill Dingus) and I hope Dan can fill his shoes," he said.

If anyone can, Evans can, Shafer added.

"He knows the people."

Ohio University staff in Athens echoed those sentiments at the 6:15 p.m. welcoming ceremony.

Ironton Mayor Bob Cleary presented Evans with a proclamation that proclaimed July 3 as "Dan Evans Day" in Ironton, and presented him with a key to the city. Cleary also read aloud some of Evans’ accomplishments from an old high school yearbook.

"It’s wonderful to have him back here in our community," the mayor said.

Evans called the return to his native Lawrence County an exciting yet challenging opportunity.

"I’m looking forward to working with the community and continuing to move Ohio University Southern forward."