As alumni, we can all take pride in welcoming Jesse M. Bernal as the school's next president. I invite my fellow graduates to join me in celebrating this important new chapter for our community. I attended his inauguration last week with colleagues and friends.
President Bernal, 43, takes the helm following a period of leadership transition, with two presidents serving in an interim capacity at WCSU over the past three years.
This time brought both challenges and learning opportunities for our university as we navigated change and planned for the future.
I believe alumni can take heart knowing that Dr. Bernal's appointment signals renewed stability and a clear direction ahead.
President Bernal is currently the vice president for strategy and university initiatives at Grand Valley State University in western Michigan.
A Latino leader and first-generation graduate, Dr. Bernal is committed to higher education and is set to take over at the largest Hispanic-serving institution in the state on July 11.
What a marriage.
As a product of WCSU and as a state legislator, I understand the importance of keeping the pulse of our communities thumping with diversity. I believe Dr. Bernal will leave an indelible mark here.
