The parade of flags is presented at this years opening chapel ceremony. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) Gallery: Opening Chapel kicks off with traditions August 22, 2016 by Optimist Staff Marching sounds, colorful flags and stories from Haitian places help kick-off this years Opening Chapel assembly. The Big Purple Marching band perform for this years opening chapel as it kicks off the academic year. (Photo by Alex Gabriele) The parade of flags is presented at this years opening chapel ceremony. (Photo by Alex Gabriele) The parade of flags is presented at this years opening chapel ceremony. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) The parade of flags is presented at this years opening chapel ceremony. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) The parade of flags is presented at this years opening chapel ceremony. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) Dr. Odies Wright helps lead worship at this years opening chapel as the kick off for the academic year. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) Faculty, staff and students attend this years opening chapel as the kick off for the academic year. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) The Big Purple Marching band perform for this years opening chapel as it kicks off the academic year. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) The Big Purple Marching Band perform for this years opening chapel as it kicks off the academic year. (Photo by Alex Gabriele) A Cappella Chorus and University Chorale help sing at opening chapel. (Photo by Lydia Lawson) Guest speaker, Dr. David Vanderpool, encourages students to help one another in their times of need. (Photo by Lydia Lawson)