¹ú²úÓ´Ó´

Skip to Main Content

Inaugurate | Congratulate | Celebrate

History was made on April 8, 2022, as ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ celebrated the inauguration of Sandra J. Doran, J.D., the sixth president of ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´.

The event was unlike any other ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ inauguration, taking place many months after President Doran began her tenure at the University in July of 2020.  Delayed by the global pandemic, it was all the more special as the ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ community, friends and family were finally able to gather to be part of this memorable moment in time.

President Doran’s official inauguration took place in Springfield Symphony Hall, only a block away from the corner of State and Dwight streets, where ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ Institute first opened its doors to students. The historical significance was incredibly profound, as in 2022, ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ celebrates its 125th anniversary.

“At ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´, every learner’s dreams of a better career, a richer life and a brighter future will be realized. This is our shared vision. As president of ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´, I promise you my unwavering commitment and tireless effort in fulfillment of this vision. Acting on this vision is our responsibility and our joy. Let us move forward together with the courage to do what is right, even when it is not easy; with faith in ourselves, each other and our future; and with unbridled hope and joy for ourselves, our communities and our students.” 

As the inauguration acknowledged the past and traditions, it was also a testament to the enduring legacy of ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´, while looking to the future under President Doran. Our University motto captured the spirit of the day: Carpe Diem. And in the words of President Doran: “Carpe Futurum.”

Over 30 representatives from colleges and universities joined the academic parade including, from left to right, Howard Horton, executive director of Cambridge College Global; Dr. Harry Dumay, president of Our Lady of the Elms; and ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ trustee Wayne Webster.
Before the inauguration, ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ trustees take a selfie for history in the robing room. From left to right: Brian Tuohey, Rodger Metzger, Mary Ann Spencer, and Michelle Wirth.
President Sandra Doran and Jonathan F. Besse, chair of the ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ Board of Trustees.
The Expandable Brass Band, a second line New Orleans-style jazz group, added to the celebratory atmosphere.
Mayor Domenic Sarno provided welcome remarks from the city of Springfield.
The Honorable Richard Neal, U.S. Congressman from the First Congressional District of Massachusetts, offers congratulations to President Doran.
Suzanne Parker, executive director of Girls Inc. of the Valley, spoke of the shared mission of educating girls and women.
Dr. Thomas Mennella, chair of the faculty, offered greetings.
Julia Dudek ’23, president of the Student Government Association, represented the Traditional Undergraduate College.
Christina Carpenter ’23 spoke on behalf of The American Women’s College.
Nikki Burnett ’18. G’21, G’24, offered words of welcome from the Graduate College.
Ashley Pereira G’19, G’21, senior human resources operations manager, brought greetings from the staff at ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´.
Alumni Association President Stephanie O’Leary ’05, G’16, G’17, provided words of welcome on behalf of the more than 16,000 alumni.
¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ students from the Performing Arts Department perform the Alma Mater. A special third stanza was written and premiered at the inauguration.
The inaugural address was given by Margaret McKenna, J.D., president emerita, Lesley University.
Chair Jonathan Besse presents the oath and symbols of office to President Doran who is joined by Dr. Carol Leary, president emerita of ¹ú²úÓ´Ó´, and Stephen Doran, the presidential spouse.
¹ú²úÓ´Ó´ faculty take a group selfie as they don their academic regalia for the procession.

Visit to watch the complete inauguration, highlights, view the photo gallery of the day and more.

All Photos Courtesy of Matt Wright Studios