It’s been five months since Lisa Lori began her tenure as Marywood’s 13th president, and the school has celebrated this historic occasion through inauguration day.
The week leading up to inauguration day has been filled with activities. From the talent show on Tuesday to 90s Day on Thursday, everyone around campus was ready for the day.
The day began with the inauguration liturgy held by the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera,
bishop of the Diocese of Scranton. Bambera began the service thanking Lori for her dedication thus far.
“We give thanks for her willingness to accept this great responsibility, to walk with this community of students, to lead this university and the spirit of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and to continue the great tradition of educating young women and men in the Catholic tradition.”
After the inauguration lunch, the inauguration ceremony formally inducted Lori as the 13th president of Marywood.
Throughout the ceremony, the idea of firsts came up. The first class of Marywood students graduated in 1915, when women’s education wasn’t supported. The first inauguration for Marywood presidents began in 1988, with Sr. Mary Reap, and Lisa Lori became the first layperson to take the presidential office that IHM sisters normally held.
Students, faculty and staff took part in the event, from performances by the music departments to anecdotes speaking highly of Lori and giving her advice into her tenure. Past President Sr. Mary Persico spoke, passing on the torch to Lori and giving words of encouragement for the next chapter.
Sr. Persico stated, “There is a reason you are here. You are surrounded by people who believe in you, who believe in your passion. We believe in your ability to ignite and reignite that light that is Marywood’s mission as a Catholic University in everything you do. We believe that in this ancestral line of Marywood presidents, you are the first one to lead us through the challenges of our time and to bring our beloved university through those challenges to a new and shining place.”
Through her inauguration address, Lori spoke about the history of the college, the changes she has seen so far and what she sees for the future of Marywood.
“I envision a Marywood where we all come together to elevate one another, fostering a culture of collaboration at every level,” Lori said.
Lori closed her address speaking to the students in the crowd: “Remember, there’s a spark in everyone of you, you just have to ignite the light and let it shine.”
Lori plans to continue to support programs, expand Marywood’s reach into other nations and sustain the Catholic teachings Marywood was built upon 109 years ago.
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