TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)—Dr. Mike Godard was installed as the 13th President of Indiana State University in a formal ceremony Friday afternoon.
The ceremony was a public affirmation as Godard official took the helm. It featured an academic procession and presidential medallion presentation, symbolizing institutional authority and control.
Those in attendance heard from several guest speakers, including Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun. Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb and Senator Todd Young offered their support through a virtual message.
Several speakers spoke about the positive impression Godard has been making on campus since taking office on June 1.
“We couldn’t go more than two feet without him being engaged by someone or engaging with someone,” Robert Casey, Chair for the ISU Board of Trustees, said. “It was smiles, it was pats on the shoulders, it was handshakes.”
During the ceremony, Dr. Godard gave his inaugural address. He presented his vision for the university during his term in office, focusing on increasing student enrollment, expanding workforce development initiatives, and strengthening community partnerships.
He was met with a standing ovation.
During an interview with WTWO, Godard said he wanted his address to be more about the university and less about him.
“It was more of a chance just to be able to express my gratitude to being able to serve in this role as the 13th president and really just what our future is as an institution,” Godard said.
On a personal level, Godard says he’s humbled as he reflects on where he once was as a first-generation college student.
“This was never the trajectory that I ever imagined,” Godard said. “But remaining on a college campus for decades now, I do it because I care about the students and being able to be in a leadership position where hopefully I can have a positive impact on that next generation,” he added.
