Reflecting on his time at the University and reminding students to cherish their experience, College Dean Ed Ayers gave his final lecture to a packed Old Cabell Hall auditorium last night. After 26 years at the University, Ayers is leaving at the end of the semester to take on the position of president at the University of Richmond.
Ayers said while he enjoyed his time at the University, he is also excited to take his new position this fall.
One student asked Ayers if, in taking this job at Richmond, he would be in prime position to return to the University as its next president. Ayers responded that he is currently focused on his new job, not looking further down the road.
"I'm going to try and do as many good things as quick as I can," Ayers said. "The clock is ticking and that's what I want to do there."
Ayers reached out to students, reminding them that their time in this unique college environment is fleeting.
"It doesn't get any more real than this," Ayers said. "It can't get any more real than a place where you can really talk about things ... life, race, things that are impossible."
Of particular importance to Ayers was the passage of time and how "you'll never be the age you are right now again." He shared the advice his father had given him, reminding him not to "wish your life away."
During his 50 semesters of teaching at the University, he has taught more than 8,000 students, and Ayers said the significant amount of time he spent with students is one of the most important parts of his years at the University.
For Ayers, University traditions helped to reinforce and perpetuate time.
"Young people pour through this place like water is going to overrun its banks," Ayers said. "If we don't hold on to traditions, we're just going to get washed away."
Ayers' lecture was not entirely serious. He used his forum to remind students of his true passions.
"The opportunity to be the center of attention is why I took this profession," Ayers said. "My first career choice was taken -- a rock star."
Ayers went on to add that while he might not be musically inclined, he can "play some awe inspiring, some would say jaw-dropping, air guitar."
Heather Warren, associate professor of religious studies, introduced Ayers for the "Last Lecture Series." She noted that the Parents Program finances the series in order "to enhance student and faculty interaction outside of the classroom," a tenet Ayers has consistently represented in his time here.
Students expressed enthusiasm in hearing Ayers' last speech, giving him a standing ovation.
First-year College student Sara Irvani said Ayers' speech "was amazing" and made her "want to go out and be more proactive."
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