Robert K. Vischer was inaugurated Friday as the University of St. Thomas’ 16th president after a nationwide search to fill the office. Vischer’s selection followed his year-long tenure as interim president after the departure of his predecessor, Julie Sullivan. Sullivan was in attendance during the inauguration and wished Vischer well in a video recording.
The inauguration ceremony, which took place in St. Thomas’ Anderson Athletics and Recreation Facility, was attended by St. Thomas faculty, students, and public figures including U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter.
“Rob, I know how committed you are to leading St. Thomas at this pivotal moment,” Klobuchar said. “You’re ready to lead.”
Klobuchar and Carter both gave speeches wishing Vischer well, as did many prominent St. Thomas staff members. Others, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, recorded video messages that were played throughout the ceremony.
“As a former teacher, I know firsthand, the most important thing we can do for the future of our state, of our country, and the world, is to provide students with the best education possible… I look forward to continuing the tradition of working together to open the doors to a quality, higher education for all Minnesotans.” Walz said.
Following his investiture, Vischer addressed the assembly. His speech focused on being courageous in the face of struggles St. Thomas is likely to face in the coming years.
“We know that the number of high school graduates is going to begin to decline… We know that artificial intelligence is going to impact our work in ways we can’t yet see… We know that we face a growing mental health crisis among young adults,” acknowledged Vischer. “We also know that we have something unique and valuable to offer students in the world.”
Vischer went on to cite St. Thomas’ namesake, Thomas Aquinas, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as inspirations for his vision of the university’s future.
“Truth seeking is not always comfortable, but it must be at the heart of the university,” said Vischer. “Our goal is to reach beyond what might feel comfortable in order to help each other grow in our understanding of the world and the ways in which we might contribute to its flourishing.”
Finally, Vischer announced a university-wide initiative meant to “help us resist the fragmentation and commodification and polarization of knowledge” at St. Thomas, focusing on “the many ways in which truth, beauty and goodness are lived out each day across our campus.”
Participation in the initiative will be open to all students but not required.
The ceremony concluded with an interfaith benediction and a performance by the University of St. Thomas Chamber Singers.
“If our commitment to St. Thomas today can help ensure that future generations will experience these values tomorrow,” Vischer said. “I’m all in, and I hope you are too.”
Abby Madsen can be reached at mads3817@stthomas.edu.
Errol Mickelson can be reached at mick9345@stthomas.edu.
Gwynnevere Vang can be reached at vang5129@stthomas.edu.