Welcoming guests was current president Dr. John Carson, with the opening prayer delivered by Dr. Randall T. Ruble, Dean Emeritus of Erskine Theological Seminary. Ruble, who retired last year, said he was "deeply moved" to be present on this occasion, remarking that he had served as dean during nearly the whole of Strobel's presidency.

William B. Patrick, Jr., (right) chairman of the Erskine College Board of Trustees, spoke of the "many challenges and opportunities facing us" when the Strobels came to Erskine in 1990. Patrick announced that a "Resolution of Appreciation" listing some of the accomplishments of the Strobel years was adopted unanimously by the board. (3.3mb Quicktime Movie)

"A Strategic Plan for Erskine was adopted just before they came, and almost all those things have been accomplished," Patrick said.

During Strobel's administration all of Erskine's long and short-term debt was eliminated, Erskine's largest capital campaign raised $33 million, exceeding its goal, and Erskine's endowment was more than doubled to $26 million. In addition, a campus master plan was developed, the Bell Sports Complex was added, and the Bowie Arts Center was constructed, with the new Daniel-Moultrie Science Center well under way.

Strobel took a special interest in improving the Erskine campus grounds, and they are now in "the best condition in Erskine's history" according to the resolution. He also presided over the introduction of "more curriculum opportunities at the college and seminary than at any time in its history."

During Strobel's years at Erskine, the school won three consecutive Pacesetter Awards for highest percentage of alumni giving awarded by the Independent Colleges and Universities of South Carolina (ICUSC).

Former student body president Christopher S. Perrin spoke of the Strobels' personal touch, recalling that he decided that "Erskine was a good place to be" toward the end of his first semester when students were invited to the president's home for a study break and the Strobels gave graciously of their hospitality. (2.5mb Quicktime Movie)

"For all the students, let me thank you for all you have done here," Perrin said.

Phil Phillips, who with his wife Sylvia serves as chair of the Erskine College Parents Association, also thanked the Strobels.

"On behalf of parents who entrusted their children to you, I also thank you," said Phillips. "You have dedicated your life to the messengers of the future."

Erskine College and Seminary chaplain Dr. John T. West IV introduced a special guest, Mrs. Mary Ellen Pope, a member of the class of 1926 at Mississippi State University for Women, where Strobel served as president before coming to Erskine.

Pope praised Strobel for his "tenacity and excellent vision, commitment, dedication and leadership" during some very tough times for her alma mater and noted that the president and first lady served as role models for faculty and staff.(3.4mb Quicktime Movie)

Past chairman of the board of trustees John T. Moore, who presented and unveiled portraits of Dr. and Mrs. Strobel, remarked that during the time he served with Strobel "Jim was extremely helpful in reminding me to make things happen now" rather than dwelling excessively on the future or on "the way things used to be."(4.3mb Quicktime Movie)

In addition to a presidential portrait and one of both the president and first lady, a book of letters written especially for the occasion by well wishers was presented to the Strobels. A scholarship is also being established in their honor.

"I think the good Lord for bringing us into education, to have friends who are here to join us," said Strobel. "I don't know what the future holds for us, but Erskine College will always be a top priority for us. We felt led to be here."

Strobel spoke of sorting through their possessions in preparation for their move and recalled how many memories were represented by little gifts received over the years. "When you go through a house you go through all your possessions and it is a time of reflection," he said. "We treasure the memories and are reminded of the good times." (1.9mb Quicktime Movie)

Praising the many friends he and his wife made during their involvement with Erskine College, the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, and the Independent Colleges and Universities of South Carolina, Strobel said, "It isn't just two people, it's a team effort, and that's what makes it work. What all of us do in higher education is invest in the future."

Donna Strobel thanked those attending "for making us part of your family, your school, your community. You enfolded us into your life." (4.0mb Quicktime Movie)

Dr. Strobel has been named President Emeritus, and in closing remarks Erskine president Dr. John Carson assured the Strobels that "we'll be seeking your advice and leadership."

The Erskine College Choraleers, directed by Dr. Kim L. Renas, sang "Set Me as a Seal" by Rene Clausen and the spiritual "Ain't Got Time to Die," arranged by Hall Johnson, in tribute to the Strobels, and the closing prayer was offered by Dr. West.