2008 Woodie Awards
ISU President Vailas honored with inauguration gala
Diantha Leavitt
Issue date: 9/19/07 Section: Life
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The evening was the Inaugural Gala Performance full of every type of entertainment ISU has to offer. Present were dignitaries from the Idaho state government, the Vailas family, the community, ISU students, faculty and staff.
Scott Bedke, a member of the Idaho State Legislature, first encountered Vailas on his ranch last year. He knew the president liked the outdoors and invited him to come to his home.
"I think ISU is lucky," said Bedke. "I think he's the right guy to be president of a dynamic university."
And he is not alone in his sentiments. President Pro Tempore of the Idaho State Senate Robert L. Geddes said, "I think he loves Idaho as much as we love Idaho."
After dinner at the L.E. and Thelma E. Performing Arts Center, Vailas addressed his guests.
"Laura and I feel very moved by the commitment of this community."
Vailas focused his comments on the greatness of education and not on his own accomplishments. "Education changes lives," he said. "Investiture and graduation are just a celebration of education."
And then in true Vailas form he introduced his brothers, sister-in-law, daughter and son-in-law to the audience, taking time to mention the accomplishments of each.
"On behalf of the Vailas clan we want to thank you for the wonderful commitment and support," said Vailas.
After the speech, it was time for Theatre/Dance ISU to give the audience a 2007-2008 season preview. Scenes from "The Country Wife," "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," "Lost in Yonkers," "Slueth" and "Pippin" were acted out. The Idaho Moving Project (I-Move) performed a piece without story, according to but the movement kept the audience riveted to the dance.
Next the Portneuf Brass, Trio Lyrique and the ISU Chamber Choir performed.
"This is an opportunity for our own music and theatre department to shine," said Box Office Manager Paula Corbin.
"This evening is special because we haven't had one of these in over 20 years," said usher Ann Smalley.
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