Speeches

10/20/21

"If we appreciate that we don't have all the answers, we're open and eager to learn from others...With true humility, we are able to fulfill our civic responsibility."

9/28/21

“Serving many – and serving meaningfully – has always been at the heart of our mission.”

9/28/21

"Academic excellence grounds us as an institution. But it is our innovation that propels us forward. Innovation drives everything we do."

10/20/21

“Today, we embark upon an initiative rooted in a concept of human rights...namely, the conviction that all of our neighbors deserve the right to a bright, healthy future.”

9/28/21

"Now, more than ever, we need ideas, solutions and collaborations that transcend borders of all kind–geographic, cultural, disciplinary and ideological."

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Fall 2025

2025 State of the University Address
9/26/25
"Over the years, we have approached everything we do in a spirit of solidarity. That fact has made my tenure as president immensely rewarding. More importantly, it has made all things possible for our great university. And it is why I stand before you today, one final time, to declare—with deep pride—that the state of our university is strong."

Spring 2025

Commencement 2025
5/18/25
"By holding fast to principles of reason and integrity, you truly have, as Mandela said, the means to change the world."
The Landing at Ellicott Grand Opening
4/2/25
"By creating an inviting and homey central gathering area, the Landing encourages studying, gathering and camaraderie."
Student Union Grand Reopening
1/15/25
"The updated Student Union is a prime example of UB putting our students at the heart of everything we do."

Fall 2024

Brittany Murchie Mulla Sports Performance Center Grand Opening
10/17/24
"Whether on the court, in the classroom, or in the clinic, we are creating an environment that encourages our students to reach their full potential."
2024 State of the University Address
10/11/24
"Whether we’re huddled over the research bench, standing at the ballet barre, or building a start-up, we are, each one of us, working toward a shared goal. It is precisely the goal I have laid out for you today: Impact through excellence. This is what binds us. This is the foundation of the universal language we share."
Russell L. Agrusa Hall Ceremonial Groundbreaking
9/17/24
"Russell L. Agrusa Hall will have a transformative impact on our engineering school, our learning environment and our university community."

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