Wetherell passes torch to incoming Barron
Florida State University President Thomas “T.K.” Wetherell continued the tradition of passing the torch of leadership to his successor and FSU’s 14th president, Eric Barron, on Wednesday, Feb. 17.
In his six-year tenure of managing the university, Wetherell promoted both athletics and academics substantially, as well as emphasizing the growth of campus aesthetics, especially with FSU’s Legacy Walk through the scenic parts of the university.
“The most visible part of his achievements are the bricks and mortar you see around campus,” said Wetherell’s wife, Virginia. She made a point to acknowledge his academic achievements but neglected to list them in an attempt to “keep it short.”
Brothers of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity discuss the days proceedings behind Wetherell's new statue, donated to the alumnus of their chapter at Florida State.
Mrs. Wetherell’s speech was followed by that of Phi Delta Theta fraternity’s alumni advisor, announcing and unveiling the statue dedicated to President Wetherell, a brother from Florida State’s Phi Delta Theta chapter. The statue sits opposite university founder Francis Eppes at the Westcott Plaza.
Student Body President Robert Jakubik then welcomed President Wetherell to the podium for his final address as President of FSU.
“It’s difficult to put into words how special it’s been for us, especially me, being an alumnus,” said Wetherell, discussing his history with the university since beginning as a student.
During his speech Wetherell brought up importance of Heritage Day to the university.
“It’s been an opportunity for those of us who are FSU alum, donors, boosters, friends of the university, to come together and recognize what an outstanding institution Florida State is, but the opportunity also, to really showcase the programs that we have, showcase our faculty and showcase our students,” said Wetherell.
After thanking D’Alemberte for beginning the Heritage Day tradition, Wetherell stepped away from the podium. Barron then addressed the crowd, promising to uphold the values emblazoned across FSU’s seal: Vires, Artes, and Mores (strength, skill, and character).
Incoming President Eric Barron address the crowd, promising progress in education and tradition during his tenure at Florida State.
“When I see all of our values and our history and it’s cherished by our students, it underscores what a special institution this really is,” said Barron, now the second consecutive alumnus of Florida State to assume the role of University President.
Wetherell is expected to stay with the Florida State family and reignite his teaching career. Before stepping up to be a university president, Wetherell was a professor of education at Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach, Fla. His vocation was not mentioned during the proceedings, but it was made clear that he would like to begin as soon as possible.
The day ended with performances from the Flying High Circus and the Marching Chiefs.
