Just after 10 a.m. Thursday, hundreds gathered in Reed Library for one of the steps in the changing of the guard.
Frank Pagano, college council chairman, was beaming. He told those in attendance he had returned Wednesday from Brockport where he had heard great things from members of the State University of New York board of trustees about Fredonia State University, its current leader - and its next leader.
He then announced Dr. Virginia Schaefer Horvath as the 13th president of the university.
For more than 30 seconds, Reed Library - normally quiet - was filled with cheers and applause in support of a Western New York native who has been at Fredonia State for seven years and will now lead it. "Today makes this real for me," Horvath said of her new position. She succeeds Dr. Dennis Hefner, who is retiring in June.
The press conference, held for area newspapers, radio and television, seemed a lot like a celebration. Administrators, community members, students and faculty at the event were all smiles.
As was new president Dr. Virginia Schaefer Horvath. It was a ringing endorsement.
Congratulations.
