JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Harold Newman Arena was filled with University faculty, students, alumni, Board of Trustees, community leaders, and residents who have been in some way impacted by University President Dr. Robert Badal.

On Monday, February 19th, a retirement ceremony was held to honor Dr. Badal as he serves out his final days as president.

Dr. Badal is a native of Chicago and holds doctoral and master’s degrees in theatre from Northwestern University. Prior to coming to Jamestown in 2002, he served as provost and vice president for academic and student affairs and Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. He was also acting president at Stephens from June 2000 to January 2001.

During the retirement ceremony, Badal was congratulated for all he had done for the University during his tenure. From establishing the Character in Leadership program, to doubling the foundation and completing several financial campaigns. President Elect Polly Peterson quoted the Honorable Judge Ralph Erikson when describing how Dr. Badal has helped shape the University.

Jamestown Mayor Katie Andersen proclaimed February 19th as Dr. Robert Badal day.

Vice President of Marketing Tena Lawrence presented a flag from Senator Heidi Heitkamp that had been flown over the U.S. capitol in Dr. Badal’s honor.

Student Senate President Merideth Mutch was also on hand to share the students perspective and wellwishes for Dr. Badal.

Dr. Badal addressed the crowd of around 150 later, using the 15th Century play “The Castle of Perseverance” as a way to describe his time at the University of Jamestown.

Dr. Badal told NewsDakota.com that the thing he’ll miss most about the University is being there everyday.

Dr. Polly Peterson is set to take over as president of the University by the end of February.

Full video of the retirement ceremony and pictures can be found below. Audio is courtesy of the University of Jamestown.