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The installation of Chancellor Lee H. Roberts

Each year, Carolina celebrates University Day, which marks the laying of the cornerstone of Old East — the campus’ first building and the oldest state university building in the nation.

Occasionally, University Day also serves as the installation of a new chancellor. Carolina honored its 13th chancellor, Lee H. Roberts, at this year's event on Friday, Oct. 11.

Keep scrolling to learn more about University Day and Roberts.

University Day has been a Carolina tradition since 1877. The day is a celebration of our mission as the country’s first public university and our service to North Carolina, the nation and the world. On this day, we remember the University’s past and celebrate its future.

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University leaders on stage at Memorial Hall during UNC-Chapel Hill's University Day celebration that included the installation of Lee H. Roberts. UNC System President Peter Hans is speaking from a podium.

Since 1957’s installation of William B. Aycock, University Day has also been theinauguration day for new chancellors. Carolina continued that tradition this year with the installation of Roberts, who was elected by the Board of Governors in August.

Read and watch a video about the tradition of installing new chancellors at Carolina.

Chancellor's medallion on top of Durant Bible

Wearing Carolina Blue regalia, Roberts took his oath of office with his hand on the Durant Bible, the state’s oldest family Bible, held by his wife, Liza. Roberts was later presented with the chancellor’s medallion that includes the names of his predecessors.

Watch video from and read about Roberts’ inauguration

Wide-angle shot of the stage in Memorial Hall on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill during the inauguration of Chancellor Lee H. Roberts on University Day. Roberts is seen taking his oath of office with his hand on the Bible.

I will do everything I can to support your good ideas, encourage opportunities and continue building a community where everyone can thrive.

Chancellor Lee H. Roberts

Read his full installation speech

Chancellor Lee H. Roberts giving a speech during his installation on the stage at Memorial Hall on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill.

The beginning of a new chapter

"We must continue expanding our reach and ensuring that our University reflects the dynamism and evolution of the state that we serve," Roberts said in his speech.

    Press the play button above for sights and sounds from the chancellor’s installation on University Day

In pictures: past University Days

1877: In a poster advertising the inaugural University Day, Kemp P. Battle, the University's president from 1876 to 1891, invited the public to attend.

1940s: University President Frank Porter Graham and Chancellor Robert House led a group of faculty toward Memorial Hall.

1961: President John F. Kennedy spoke at University Day and received an honorary degree from the University during the ceremony.

1978: Actor and North Carolina native Andy Griffith (center) spoke at University Day and received the distinguished alumnus award.

1993: Speaking at the University's bicentennial, Tar Heel alumnus and journalist Charles Kuralt gave a famous speech that asked the question, "What is it that binds us to this place as to no other?"

2018: As it turned 225, the University celebrated its past and embraced a future in service of a better state, a better nation and a better world.