President, student trade places for the day

Valparaiso University President Mark A. Heckler exchanged his suit and tie for a backpack and a notebook on April 20, switching roles with a student, senior german major Emily German, in an event sponsored by Valpo’s Mortar Board to raise money for charity.

Heckler and German began their new “roles” at 8 a.m. and continued past 5 p.m., with Heckler attending a study session, practicing the University organ and attending Christ College classes – based on the student’s typical day. Meanwhile, German spent the day holding one-on-one meetings with various university leaders, and giving the president’s opening remarks at an Author’s Reception in the Christopher Center.

In order to trade places with the president, students purchased tickets from Mortar Board in advance, and German’s name was drawn from those who entered. The proceeds will be split equally between two charities chosen by the president and the student.