During the 2024–25 Opening Celebration Convocation Ceremony on August 26, President Marcheta Evans, PhD, ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â's 12th president, officially addressed the St. Kate's community for the first time. Read her full remarks below.
"Let us make this a year to remember."
Good morning, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and honored guests,
I stand before you today with immense gratitude and a profound sense of responsibility. As we embark on this new academic year together, I am deeply honored to join you as the new President of ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â. Today is not just the beginning of a new chapter for me, but for all of us — a chapter filled with promise, potential, and the pursuit of excellence.
ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â has a storied history, rooted in the values of academic rigor, social justice, and the empowerment of all people, especially women. For over a century, this institution has been a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, producing leaders who have gone on to make significant contributions to our world. It is a legacy that I am committed to honoring and upholding.
As we gather here today, we stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us—those who have built this university into the remarkable institution it is today. Let us take a moment to acknowledge the visionaries, the educators, the students, and the staff who have shaped ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â into a place where knowledge meets purpose.
Education is the great equalizer, the force that transcends boundaries and transforms lives. It is here, within the walls of this university, that we challenge our minds, expand our horizons, and discover the power we hold to shape our own destinies. ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â has always believed in the transformative power of education — an education that is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about using that knowledge to effect change in our communities and our world.
In today’s rapidly changing global landscape, the role of higher education has never been more critical. We must prepare our students not just for the jobs of today, but for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. This requires a commitment to innovation, to interdisciplinary learning, and to fostering an environment where creativity and critical thinking are encouraged and celebrated.
As we look to the future, I envision ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â as a leader in higher education, a place where academic excellence meets social responsibility, where diversity is not just celebrated, but woven into the very fabric of who we are.
We will continue to build on our strengths, to innovate, and to lead by example in creating a more just and equitable world.
Our university will be a place where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their full potential. We will prioritize not only academic success but also the well-being of our students, ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to thrive. We will work together to create a campus culture that is inclusive, respectful, and welcoming to all.
I am committed to fostering a spirit of collaboration and partnership across our campus. We are stronger together, and it is through our collective efforts that we will achieve greatness. I invite each of you — students, faculty, staff, and alumni — to join me in this journey. Let us work hand in hand to advance the mission of ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â, to push the boundaries of what is possible, and to create a future that we can all be proud of.
I know that the road ahead will not always be easy. We will face challenges, both expected and unforeseen. But I am confident that together, we can overcome any obstacle. It is in times of challenge that our true character is revealed, and I have no doubt that the St. Catherine community will rise to the occasion with resilience, determination, and grace.
With challenge comes opportunity — the opportunity to grow, to learn, and to make a difference. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the values of integrity, compassion, and a deep dedication to the common good.
As we begin this new academic year, let us do so with a sense of purpose and a spirit of optimism. The future of ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â is bright, and I am excited to be on this journey with all of you. Together, we will write the next chapter in the history of this great institution — a chapter defined by excellence, innovation, and a shared commitment to making the world a better place.
Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible community. I am honored to serve as your President, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the years to come.
Let us make this a year to remember. Welcome to the new academic year at ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â!