Virginia Governor Spanberger Celebrates William & Mary’s 333rd Birthday

WILLIAMSBURG — Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger celebrated the 333rd birthday of the College of William & Mary on February 8, 2024, during the university’s annual Charter Day ceremony. The event, which traditionally features a speech from the newly elected governor, also included remarks from acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns. This year’s gathering marked not only the anniversary of the university’s founding but also the launch of “The Year of Civic Leadership,” which emphasizes the institution’s commitment to service and the common good.

During the celebration held at Kaplan Arena, William & Mary President Katherine Rowe highlighted the university’s significant milestones. She noted recent achievements, including the establishment of the School of Computing, which represents the first new academic school in half a century. Rowe reflected on the university’s historical role in shaping leaders for over three centuries, stating, “We persistently pursue excellence… to remain the dream school of the 21st century — the best place for every graduate to launch their career.”

In a significant moment, Robert M. Gates was reinstated as the university’s 24th chancellor during the ceremony. Gates, a former U.S. Secretary of Defense, has served both President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama. He expressed optimism about the future of William & Mary and acknowledged the remarkable enthusiasm and dedication of the students. “Here, students learn about the rights and privileges of citizenship,” Gates said. “But they also learn about the obligations and duties we have as citizens.”

The ceremony was also notable for the awarding of honorary degrees, a tradition that began in 1756 with Benjamin Franklin. Ken Burns, often referred to as “America’s Storyteller,” shared insights from his extensive career in documentary filmmaking. Reflecting on his first PBS film, “Brooklyn Bridge,” Burns encouraged attendees to contribute something beautiful to the world, regardless of the medium. “It doesn’t have to be a bridge or a symphony or a book or a business,” he said. “But above all, do something that will last and be beautiful.”

Governor Spanberger, who made history as Virginia’s first female governor, received a warm reception from the audience, contrasting with the experience of her predecessor. In her address, she spoke about the importance of civic engagement in overcoming national division. “It takes civic leadership. It takes engaged, informed citizens choosing service to one another over self-interest,” she stated. Spanberger emphasized the need for community-focused actions, stating, “Everyday Americans choosing community over chaos and division.”

Spanberger acknowledged the complexities of Virginia’s history, including the ongoing challenges related to slavery and civil rights. She highlighted her signing of a proposed constitutional amendment earlier that day, aimed at guaranteeing marriage equality in Virginia. This amendment, which seeks to remove a two-decade-old ban on same-sex marriage, will be presented to voters later this year. “Sometimes progress can come quickly and sometimes it takes a long time,” she remarked. “But it requires that civic engagement and leadership.”

As the university commemorates its legacy, the Charter Day celebration serves as a reminder of the enduring commitment to leadership and community service that defines William & Mary.