The Opener

Welcome to the Opening Ceremony of Imagine RIT, the main event that started off one of the most unique days at RIT. Imagine RIT, is an incredible event welcoming all to view and explore RIT. President William Destler’s speech echoed his pride in sharing this wonderful day with the thousands of guests on campus today.

President Destler began acknowledging the passing of Lucius “Bob” Gordon, a generous benefactor to the school and the man who gave his name to the newly built Gordon Field House. It is fitting, Destler says, that the Field House is the main gathering area for today’s events where innovation and creation will reign.

The overflow crowd appeared eager to join in the many events and exhibits that Imagine RIT is offering today. One supporter, Patti Malgiera, mentioned being excited to try a hotdog from a robotic hotdog-making machine. Another, Joe Robok, mentioned wishing to ride on the nearby Ferris wheel.

The opening ceremony was a success. Speeches were made, support was given and the excitement for the day was shared. Today is an exceptional day for RIT where innovation, creativity and ingenuity are celebrated and appreciated. The festival song written by RIT faculty Chase Glenn, appropriately started off the festivities. When listening to the words of the song, “All we need to do is close our eyes and imagine,” it is not a difficult to look around and see that those words are a reality.

Photo credit: Andrew Ong

Photo credit: Andrew Ong

Photo credit: Dave Londres

Photo credit: Dave Londres

Photo credit: Dave Londres

Photo credit: Eric Drummond

Photo credit: Eric Drummond