It is a revving up of the engine and a lubricating of the joints.' 'For me it is a new adventure and lifelong learning opportunity. Admitting it may seem strange for a man with such a background to lead FPU, Haak called the opportunity a challenge and calling. Haak began his duties in June after 38 years in public higher education, including 11 years as president of California State University, Fresno. Everyone participated in a litany of dedication. The presidential medal was presented by Henry Dick, district minister of Pacific District Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches, and Peter Klassen, chair of the university board of trustees. Fresno Mayor Jim Patterson and James Pankratz, academic dean of Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary, each brought greetings. Several hundred students, faculty and community members attended. 'It is memory work that often stands me in good stead among Mennonites,' he joked, 'although they sometimes look puzzled by my proclivity to cite the King James Version.' In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in which he was brought up, Haak said he learned the fifth chapter of Matthew, which is the heart of Jesus' great sermon. Harold Haak made that passage the center of his installation remarks during ceremonies October 27 in the campus Special Events Center.

The Sermon on the Mount links Fresno Pacific University with its ninth president.

Instaling HAAK