(Photo by Gwen Sour) Kathleen Poorman Dougherty gives an inaugural speech as she accepts the role of president for Marietta College on Friday at the Dyson-Baudo Recreation Center.

Marietta College officially inaugurated Dr. Kathleen Poorman Dougherty as its 21st president Friday afternoon, marking a new era of leadership for the 190-year-old institution.

Held in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center, the ceremony brought together faculty, students, alumni, dignitaries and community members to celebrate Dougherty’s formal installation and the college’s enduring legacy as one of Ohio’s oldest private institutions.

The event opened with performances by the a cappella group Flood Stage and the Marietta College Concert Choir, followed by an invocation from Israel Ward Andrews Professor of Religion David Corbett.

Jim Wilson, chair of the college’s Board of Trustees, presided as master of ceremonies, emphasizing that the inauguration was both a moment of reflection and anticipation.

“The inauguration of a college president is a special day in the life of the college, the community, and the state of Ohio’s higher education system,” Wilson said. “We have made an outstanding selection for Marietta College’s 21st president.”

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Marietta College Provost Suzanne Walker thanks the college’s music groups for their performances during the presidential inauguration event held Friday afternoon.

Provost and Dean of the Faculty Suzanne Walker introduced Dougherty with remarks that highlighted both her scholarly background and her commitment to the college’s mission.

“Dr. Dougherty’s journey reflects the very ideals of Marietta College – intellectual curiosity, moral integrity, and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of a liberal arts education,” Walker said. “Her leadership is not simply about maintaining tradition, but about bringing to fruition the vision that we have more history to make.”

Dougherty, who previously served as provost, dean of the faculty, and interim president, was presented with the college’s charter and the chain of office by Wilson, officially investing her with the authority of the presidency.

Ohio Sen. Brian Chavez, representing the 30th District, praised the college’s long-standing role in the state’s history and its impact on civic leadership.

“Today’s inauguration is more than a campus ceremony–it’s a moment of statewide importance,” Chavez said. “When institutions like Marietta College thrive, all of Ohio benefits.”

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Dyson-Baudo Recreation Center was filled with hundreds of staff members, students, faculty and alumni for the inauguration of Kathleen Poorman Dougherty as the president of Marietta College.

Michael Morgan, chair of the faculty council, highlighted Dougherty’s leadership in academic innovation and community engagement.

“Your presidency marks a new and exciting chapter,” he said. “Under your leadership, we are poised to deepen our partnerships throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley.”

Staff Council Chair and head soccer coach Joe Bergin reflected on Dougherty’s practical leadership style.

“She has a plan for executing initiatives with a level of speed that’s often missing in academia,” he said.

Student Body President Shayna Allshouse expressed optimism on behalf of students.

“We look forward to a future where our voices continue to be heard and our potential continues to be challenged,” she said.

Alumna Laura Stange Regan, Class of 1994, welcomed Dougherty on behalf of more than 25,000 alumni worldwide.

“We are here to celebrate your successes, support your vision, and share the pioneer spirit that binds us together,” she said.

In her inaugural address, Dougherty reflected on Marietta College’s heritage and her philosophy of relationship-centered education.

“This afternoon is more than anything, a celebration of community,” she said. “Our most important work is helping students discover who they are and what they can achieve.”

Drawing on philosophical influences, Dougherty spoke of the college’s emphasis on personal connection and purpose.

“A Marietta education is one in which students feel seen, heard and recognized,” she said. “Relationships change lives.”

She also announced two major initiatives: the forthcoming Milone Center for Academic and Career Success, which will unify academic coaching, tutoring, and career development services; and the Center for Appalachian Innovation, supported by the Ohio Legislature, which will foster regional collaboration and research on economic and community development.

“Our fortunes, both past and future, are intertwined with this region,” Dougherty said. “We are prepared to be partners and advocates for southeastern Ohio and the Appalachian region to help assure our joint thriving.”

As the college approaches its bicentennial in 2035, Dougherty pledged to continue advancing its strategic vision, “More History to Make,” with renewed focus on academic excellence, regional leadership, and student success.

“Institutions, like individuals, must discern their purpose and adapt to new futures,” she said. “Together, we have much more history to make.”