Montgomery’s Huntingdon College marked a milestone Friday, October 3, with the formal investiture of its 15th president, Dr. Anthony Leigh. The ceremony, held on the college’s historic campus, brought together students, faculty, alumni, neighbors from the Cloverdale community, and leaders from across Alabama to celebrate the new era of leadership.
A presidential investiture, one of higher education’s most time-honored traditions, symbolizes both reflection and renewal. The ceremony serves as a formal moment to recognize the history of an institution and usher in a president’s vision for the future.
Dr. Leigh selected the theme “Celebrate Huntingdon” for his investiture, a fitting reflection of his appreciation for the college’s legacy and community spirit. To mark the occasion, six distinguished speakers representing key constituencies shared remarks: Drew Harrell ’11, Director of Legislative Affairs in the Office of Governor Kay Ivey; Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed; Bishop Jonathan Holston of the Alabama Panhandle Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church; Dr. Sarah Conrad Sours, Huntingdon’s Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty; Dr. Diana Gray ’04, President of the Huntingdon College Alumni Association; and DeJon Gibby II ’26, President of the Student Government Association.
Joined by his wife, Wendy, and daughter, Carey Mae, Dr. Leigh received the presidential medallion from Leura Garrett Canary ’78, chair of the Huntingdon College Board of Trustees. His academic hood—completing his official regalia—was presented by trustees Emilie Reid, Jane Allen ’75, and Beverly McKinney ’70, who served on the Presidential Investiture Committee.
Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees Katrina Keefer ’95 guided the program as master of ceremonies. The Rev. Dr. John Ed Mathison ’60 delivered the invocation, and The Rev. Rhett Butler ’13 closed the ceremony with a benediction. The 2025 Miss Huntingdon, Linley McNew ’28, led the audience in the national anthem and the college’s alma mater, accompanied by the Huntingdon Wind Ensemble.
For those who missed the event, a full recording of the investiture ceremony is available here.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
