ABOUT THE PRESIDENTIAL INVESTITURE
The presidential investiture commemorated the beginning of a new chapter of university leadership. Featuring speakers, performances and presidential remarks, it was an opportunity for our institution to celebrate the official installation of its new president and look ahead toward its bright future.
OUR PRESIDENT
Dr. Kimberly Andrews Espy was unanimously elected the 13th president of Wayne State University in 2023 by the Board of Governors. A leader with more than 25 years of experience in higher education, she is the first woman president in Wayne State’s history.
Learn more about President Espy
Wayne State University is governed by an eight-member Board of Governors elected by Michigan voters. The board is responsible for selecting the university presidents, supervising the control and direction of university funds, setting tuition and other fiscal policies, determining compensation for services, and conferring degrees.
ACADEMIC TRADITIONS
Since 1868, Wayne State has incorporated a rich history of traditions. These hallmarks of higher education provide an opportunity to celebrate our history and identity.
Wayne State Medallion
The Wayne State presidential medallion was first presented Oct. 28, 1965, at the inauguration of the university's fifth president, William Keast. Handcrafted of sterling silver, it features the wreathed insignia of the university and the name of each of the university's presidents and the years they served.
Wayne State University Seal
The Wayne State University Seal is the oldest surviving visual symbol of our institution. It features a torch above an opened book with a banner reading “INDUSTRY – INTELLIGENCE – INTEGRITY” and 1868, the year of Wayne State’s founding.
The WSU Mace
The Academic Mace of Wayne State University is a ceremonial scepter whose features relate to the ancient maces used by universities worldwide. The 51-inch mace consists of layers of carved ebony held in place by a tubular shaft. It serves as a symbolic weapon to protect and proclaim the ideals of harmony, truth, justice and learning.
Speakers
Geri Richmond, Ph.D.
Under Secretary for Science and Innovation
U.S. Department of Energy
David Francis, Ph.D.
Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished University Chair
Department of Psychology
Director, Texas Institute for Measurement, Evaluation, and Statistics
University of Houston