In honor of the inauguration of President Carol Quillen, soprano Melissa Givens returned to Davidson on October 18, 2011, to offer a recital in celebration of Davidson's Eighteenth President. Her Common Hour performance in Tyler-Tallman Hall in Sloan Music Center moved audiences, as her melodious voice carried a challenging vocal program with intense feeling and poise. Later in the afternoon, Givens performed once again in the inauguration ceremony, accompanied by Dr. William Lawing, trumpet, and Mr. Michael Rowland, piano. As a member of the Class of 1989, Givens also proudly led all in attendance in the singing of the Alma Matter. Her exuberance in taking part of this milestone in Davidson's history was mirrored only by the joy she shared with all who were able to attend her powerful performances.

Givens has long been resoundingly praised by audiences and critics alike for her rich, liquid tone, intelligent, musical interpretations, and her expressiveness and elegance on the stage. A singer whose music making is “consistently rewarding” and “a pleasure to hear,” Givens is also known for her versatility, regularly performing repertoire from the Baroque era through music of the 21^st century. Indeed, a performance of Bach’s St. John Passion, led Charles Ward of the Houston Chronicle to proclaim her “the best, singing with effortless tone and gracious musicality.”