The University of Mount Olive formally welcomes its new leader.

UMO held the virtual inauguration of Dr. H. Edward Croom as its sixth president on Thursday.

Dr. Croom says it has been a tough year for the university as they’ve dealt with the change in leadership, the pandemic, and grieving for the four UMO students killed in a motor vehicle accident last year.

Croom laid out a few goals for his presidency, including following the beliefs and values of the Original Free Will Baptists.

He says it will be his expectation that the university will love all of God’s children.

Dr. Croom says UMO will continue to meet societal demands and advance student opportunities.

Mount Olive Mayor Ken Talton welcomed Dr. Croom and noted the impact the students, faculty and staff have on the town.

Dr. Croom has been serving as UMO’s Interim President since March of 2020.

The inauguration program included greetings from representatives of the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, the Original Free Will Baptist denomination, and the Town of Mount Olive.

It also featured musical performances by Alumna Brandy Smith, Carolina Sound, and The University of Mount Olive Concert Choir.

The full inauguration ceremony can be found at https://umo.edu/inauguration/.