St. Olaf to celebrate inauguration of President Susan Rundell Singer
On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, St. Olaf College will celebrate the inauguration of its 12th president, Susan Rundell Singer.
The inauguration ceremony will begin at 3:15 p.m. in Skoglund Auditorium. It will feature remarks from campus and community leaders, music from the St. Olaf Band and St. Olaf Choir, and an address from Rundell Singer. St. Olaf students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members are warmly invited to attend the ceremony. The event will also be streamed and available for on-demand viewing.
Rundell Singer, an experienced leader in higher education who has led national efforts to advance undergraduate teaching and learning, is the first woman to serve as president of St. Olaf. She took office in June. Read more about her accomplishments and background at stolaf.edu/president.
Leading up to the inauguration ceremony, St. Olaf will host a number of events to provide time for connection, celebration, and embracing the future of St. Olaf College.
INAUGURATION WEEK AT ST. OLAF COLLEGE
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10
3:30 p.m.
Tree Planting
St. Olaf House (President’s Residence)
5–8 p.m.
St. Olaf Community Party
Campus Green
Open to all students, faculty, and staff, this event will feature dinner, music, s’mores, bonfires, and more.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11
7:30 a.m.
Community-Wide Inauguration Bike Ride
Led by President Susan Rundell Singer, this bike ride will leave from the entrance of Buntrock Commons. All ages and abilities are welcome to join!
7:30 a.m.
Guided Nature Walk
St. Olaf Natural Lands
Led by Natural Lands Manager Wes Braker ’18 and Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies and Director of the Natural Lands Charles Umbanhowar Jr., this walk will begin near the Flaten Art Barn.
3:15 p.m.
Inauguration Ceremony
Skoglund Auditorium
Featuring remarks from St. Olaf Board of Regents Chair Susan Gunderson ’79, Associate Professor of Religion Anthony Bateza, Piper Center for Vocation and Career Director Kirsten Cahoon ’98, Northfield Mayor Rhonda Pownell ’93, Carleton College President Alison Byerly, Rollins College President Grant Cornwell, St. Olaf Alumni Board Member Mazen Abusharkh 2018, and Student Government Association President Sophia Pletcher ’24. President Susan Rundell Singer will deliver an inauguration address.
4:30 p.m.
Community Reception
Buntrock Plaza