The inauguration of Richard Anderson Harvill consisted of a series of major campus wide events which took place over homecoming weekend, November 15-17, 1951. The festivities began with a private dinner at the Arizona Inn on Thursday, November 15th, followed by an open house at the Arizona State Museum. Friday, November 16th began with a symposium entitled, "Arizona, Land of Promise and Fulfillment “ followed by a luncheon with then Arizona Governor Howard PyleThen the formal inauguration program began, presided by Robert L Nugent. Immediately following the inauguration ceremony was a reception and the formal opening of the new Kress Collection of European Masterpieces at the University of Arizona Art Gallery. Following the opening was a private performance of the musical Brigadoon, presented by the University of Arizona College of Fine Arts for Dr. Harvill, his personal guests, and invited delegates.

Homecoming day, Saturday, November 17th, was the formal dedication ceremony for the new Student Union Memorial Building. Following the dedication, was the Homecoming football game, Arizona vs. Idaho, with a special half-time presentation to the football team of 1901, and the Silver Jubilee Celebration by the Class of 1926.

The collection contains materials relating to the inauguration of Richard Anderson Harvill, as the 14th president of The University of Arizona. Included are materials relating to the planning of the event including, correspondence, invitations, guest lists, and financial statements; materials from the event, including programs, photographs, and recorded addresses; and other miscellaneous materials including clippings, greetings, and lists of invitations which received no reply.