03/16/2026
How special it was to document the inauguration of the 25th President of Stephens College on Saturday! Thank you to the marketing team at Stephens for asking me to photograph this very important and historic occasion for their institution and for President Lundeen.
The installation ceremony was hosted in the college’s equestrian center, aka horse arena, which was transformed into a beautiful event space. The ceremony included vocal performances by several students, as well as remarks by Chair of Stephens College Board of Trustees Vice Admiral Nancy Brown, Student Government Association President KaLynn Irey, and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Leslie Willey. Special guest and President of Hollins University Dr. Mary Dana Hinton gave the final remarks before Mayor Barbara Buffaloe took to the stage to proclaim March 14 Shannon B. Lundeen Day.
I especially loved how this ceremony began with a processional through the horse stables. During the reception that followed, guests took a moment to sing happy birthday to president Lundeen’s youngest son who turned 8 that day. The whole event was very meaningful and I was honored to play a part in capturing it. I’m looking forward to documenting more traditions and Stephens spirit at the Alumni Reunion next month!
Photo credit: Rebecca Allen Photography