From Dr. John C. Bowling, ONU President- "Just before Christmas, I learned that the ONU Marching Band was selected to participate in the 2017 Inaugural Parade. You will recall that at this time last year, our band had the honor of participating in the London New Year’s Day Parade. Our Marching Tigers are gaining quite a reputation, and we are very proud of them. The inauguration of a new president is not a political event, but a civic ceremony honoring the office of the president and involving every branch of government. It is an honor to represent the University and the State of Illinois on a national stage. This selection reflects our band’s long hours of preparation and hard work and provides a wonderful, rare opportunity for our students to see firsthand the peaceful transition of government. The band’s participation in significant events like the London parade and the Inaugural Parade is much like an athletic team or a student research team earning the privilege to participate in a national playoff or academic conference. It brings honor to all those who have worked hard to achieve excellence. As word spread that we accepted the Inaugural Parade invitation, individuals began expressing personal thoughts, some asking that we not participate and many others cheering us on. I understand the varying opinions, and I respect those who have shared their objections as well as support. Several have asked if Olivet would have participated in the Inaugural Parade had the outcome of the election been different. The answer is an emphatic “yes.” Had Secretary Clinton been elected president, Olivet would have been just as honored to participate. In fact, the parade application process started several weeks before the election. You may want to know that the band also applied — and was not selected — to participate in the 2016 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. We will apply again for next year. Also, the band’s trip to Washington, D.C., is being underwritten by private donations. Let me emphasize that our participation in the Inaugural Parade is not a celebration or endorsement of any party or candidate. Political convictions are varied and personal. Such is the nature of university culture. A hallmark of a healthy culture is a spirit of mutual respect even when opinions differ. As president of Olivet, I welcome your thoughts. As a fellow Olivetian, I ask that we allow our discourse not to divide us but rather to remind us that even when we differ, we are still one in heart and spirit. May the fruit of His Spirit be evident to all. I also ask you to congratulate our students on their hard work. This invitation opens a door for them to step into a chapter of history that is afforded to only a few. Please join me also in praying for the work and reach of Olivet, for our country, and for all of our leaders, past, present and future." Sincerely, John C. Bowling