Byrd and student to trade places
By Bonnie Edwards
Published in News on November 10, 2004 1:59 PM
MOUNT OLIVE -- Dr. J. William Byrd, president of Mount Olive College, will trade places with a student next week.
They'll make the switch on Wednesday, Nov. 17, as part of the college's buildup to Alumni Weekend.
Byrd will don a pair of blue jeans, lace up his tennis shoes and throw a backpack across his shoulder as he becomes a student for the day.
Likewise, a student will be selected to serve the college as president for the day.
Julie Beck, director of student activities, says applications are pouring in from students wanting to trade places with the president. The student-president swap will last from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m., with Byrd attending all the student's classes, eating lunch in the cafeteria, playing a game of Ping-Pong in Hunt Lounge and just "hanging out."
The student will attend Byrd's meetings, review college policies and eat lunch with the president's wife, Marci Byrd.
Ms. Beck says the idea came from Anthony Thorne, student homecoming chairman, and it is one of many activities planned for students throughout the week.
Other activities include a pep rally with a visit from Miss North Carolina, a bonfire and campout on the grounds, Karaoke night and a tailgate party.
For information about Alumni Weekend, contact Dianne Riley, alumni relations director, at 658-2502.