President Susan Rundell Singer smiles as wears the St. Olaf Presidnetial Medallion presented to her at the inauguration. Auguste Bernick/The Olaf Messenger
President Susan Rundell Singer’s inauguration marks the ceremonial beginning to her tenure as St. Olaf College president. “Inaugurations are a pivotal moment in a college’s history. We reflect on a rich past and strong foundation while boldly stepping into the future,” Rundell Singer said during her inaugural address.
The Presidential Inauguration Ceremony was held on Oct. 11 in Skoglund Center, inaugurating Rundell Singer as St. Olaf’s twelfth president. She is the first woman to hold the position.
Rundell Singer assumed the Presidential position on June 1, but the ceremony formally recognized and celebrated her role. The ceremony included performances by St. Olaf Band and St. Olaf Choir and greetings from speakers on behalf of the Board of Regents, student body, faculty, staff, alumni, and Carleton College.
Former College Presidents Mark Edwards Jr., Christopher Thomforde, and David Anderson ’74 were in attendance.
Rundell Singer’s Inaugural Address was titled “Solution Seekers” in which she spoke about co-creating a future with the members of St. Olaf’s community.
“When I think about the phrase ‘Oles can, Oles will,’ I see students, faculty, staff and alumni as innovators who seek solutions and have the courage and energy to bring those solutions into being,” Rundell Singer said.
In the welcoming remarks by Student Government Association (SGA) President Sophia Pletcher ’24, shared her experience meeting Rundell Singer over the summer. “She is always so open to connection and willing to lend a listening ear,” Pletcher said. “I’ve been able to see firsthand her dedication to students and this college, and I have every bit of confidence that she is going to lead St. Olaf with empathy, grace, and strength.”
Earlier that morning, community members were invited to go on the community bike ride or guided nature walk through the Natural Lands, as part of the inauguration activities. Rundell Singer is an avid biker, so the activity was fitting to welcome her to the position.
Inauguration celebrations began on Oct. 10 with a tree planting ceremony by the new President’s House. The ceremony was followed by a community party on the Quad, which featured Bon Appetit Catering, live music, and a silent disco.
The inauguration brought in families, friends, alumni, and former colleagues of Rundell Singer traveled to Northfield for the celebration. The last inauguration was 17 years ago, when President Anderson assumed the position.
