Indiana State University President Mike Godard, center, poses for a photo with John Pratt, vice chair of the ISU Board of Trustees and chairperson of the presidential search committee, and Bob Casey, chairperson of the ISU Board of Trustees, after Godard was presented the presidential medallion during the installation ceremony for him Friday at Hulman Center. Tribune-Star/Joseph C. Garza
In just a few short months, Indiana State University president Mike Godard has generated renewed energy and enthusiasm on campus, according to speakers during his installation ceremony Friday at Hulman Center.
“You’ve already made such a strong and positive impression. Your leadership is bringing a fresh perspective and a renewed energy to Indiana State,” said Gov. Eric Holcomb in a videotaped statement. “It’s clear the university is in good hands moving forward under your direction.”
Godard has been serving as president since June 1, and while the ceremony is symbolic, it’s still important to have it, said Bob Casey, ISU Board of Trustees chairman, after the ceremony.
“I think it gives the university community, the alumni body, the local community, this sense of official recognition,” Casey said.
The ceremony included an academic procession, with faculty and special guests donning traditional academic regalia. It also included the presentation of the presidential medallion, a symbol of institutional authority and continuity.
Attendees included the ISU board, faculty, staff, students, community leaders, government officials and university representatives from across the country. Also in attendance were Godard’s wife, Kathryn, son, Grant, and Godard’s parents.
Three former ISU presidents, Lloyd Benjamin, Dan Bradley and Deborah Curtis, also sat on the stage with other dignitaries.
In his comments, Godard focused on how it will take everyone working together to achieve the goals of increasing student enrollment, expanding workforce development initiatives and strengthening community partnerships.
Those priorities are important not only for ISU, but the Terre Haute community and the state, he said.
“We all have a role to play,” he said. “Indiana State’s future is bright, and I invite each of you to be part of this journey.”
He called for transformational leadership at ISU, “which is about inspiring and motivating each other to achieve more than we ever thought possible.” He said he’s already seen it occurring on campus.
Godard said his vision for Indiana State “is one of inspiration, where every person feels empowered to contribute to our shared mission. By working together, we will take this university to new heights. Because together, we can achieve far more than we can alone.”
He also talked about ISU’s close relationship with Terre Haute. “As we strengthen these bonds, we build a future where the success of Indiana State and Terre Haute go hand in hand,” he said.
Godard also spoke of the university’s commitment to workforce development, which is critical to students’ success and the future of the state of Indiana. “We’re preparing tomorrow’s leaders,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring student success as ISU works to meet its goals related to enrollment, community engagement, and workforce development.
“We are committed to creating an environment that fosters growth in every sense, supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Every decision we make is guided by this mission,” Godard said.
ISU faces challenges, but it will rise to meet those challenges, he said. “This is our moment. This is our time to lead.”
Among the speakers was Jaxson Zeis, ISU Student Government Association president, who praised Godard for his many interactions with students and emphasis on developing relationships with them — from dining with them in the Commons to joining them for a workout in the Rec Center.
James Gustafson, Faculty Senate chairman, said Godard has demonstrated his willingness to listen and collaborate.
He also praised Godard for the “energy and enthusiasm he has brought to campus. In just a few short months, you can already feel the impact.”
Mayor Brandon Sakbun stressed the importance of the collaboration between Terre Haute and ISU.
He told Godard, “Your commitment to student success, community engagement and workforce development aligns perfectly with our aspirations right here in Terre Haute. Together, we can continue building a vibrant future for our city.”
By video, U.S. Sen. Todd Young congratulated Godard and pledged his support to the ISU president and university.
ISU’s mission, especially in serving first-generation college students, “is critical to the state’s workforce and the economic security of our nation,” Young said.
After the ceremony, Godard said he was humbled by the event and comments from others about positive momentum growing on campus.
“I want people to be excited and passionate about what we are doing at Indiana State because I think we have a lot to offer,” he said.
He was once a first-generation college student and at the time never imagined becoming a university president.
Godard said he’s stayed in higher education “because I care about the students.” Being in a leadership position and helping students achieve their dreams and potential, “That’s what drives me. That’s what gives me passion.”
And now, he’s grateful for the opportunity to help even more students succeed as Indiana State University’s 13th president.
© 2024 Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.