FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 21, 2008
Contact: Anika Mitchell Perkins
(662) 329-7124
aperkins@pa.muw.edu

MUW to host naturalization ceremony on campus Dec. 4

COLUMBUS, Miss. – Approximately 150 citizens from 55 different countries will take an oath of citizenship on the campus of Mississippi University for Women Thursday, Dec. 4 at 10:30 a.m. in Whitfield Hall, Rent Auditorium.

David Crews of the United States District Court said the naturalization proceedings are a great civics lesson for area schools. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

“This naturalization program is unique in that it is only the second time it has been held outside a U.S. courthouse in this district, and I feel certain this will be the first time U.S. Court has been held on the MUW campus. It will also be the second largest group of citizens ever naturalized in this district.”

He added, “It is a wonderful and heartwarming ceremony that is an important highlight in the lives of these new citizens, many of whom have great stories about their journey to become citizens of the United States.”

The program will include presentation of candidates for naturalization, oath of citizenship and presentation of souvenirs to the new citizens of the United States.

Chief Judge Michael P. Mills will preside and Congressman Travis Childers will give the keynote address. MUW President Claudia A. Limbert will make welcoming remarks.