Student Council President Colin Hood dedicated an American Elm tree to the Casteens on behalf of the student body. Hood explained that Council chose this symbol to represent the couple's "role in the groundwork of the student experience." The tree will be planted near the Chapel, Hood said.
"Although it will be sad to say goodbye to such loyal and dedicated leaders in our community, we are sure that their long-lasting changes to this institution will never fade," he added.
Casteen, who began his presidency in 1990, reflected on his term at the University when addressing the audience. First, however, he thanked the past and present members of the University community for making the couple's time on Grounds a positive experience for both of them.
"Let me say, for Betsy and me both, how deeply grateful we are," he said. "As I look back on the life that I've lived here, that Betsy and I have lived here, it's very, very hard to think of anything that one remembers in a negative way. I've enjoyed every aspect of it and I thank you all for that."
President Casteen will give the commencement address for the class of 2010 when it graduates this May. In August, the presidency will formally transition into the hands of Teresa A. Sullivan.
-compiled by Bethel Habte
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