President Poser drivers inaugural speech on Friday, Oct. 1. // Photo courtesy of Alexis Friedman.
Two months after starting her role, Susan Poser has been officially inaugurated as the ninth president of Hofstra University; Poser is the University’s first female president. The inauguration ceremony was held on Friday, Oct. 1, in the David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex.
To commemorate the inauguration, Hofstra hosted events such as the Jones Beach Clean Up and the Roar Rally, which showcased the many talents of Hofstra students.
Many athletes attended the inauguration to show support and welcome Poser.
“I think it’s a pretty historic moment in Hofstra’s history. It’s kind of cool to see a president come in and be a part of it. There’s a lot of support for her being the first female president in our history at Hofstra,” said Katie Kelly, a community health junior and athlete from the women’s lacrosse team. “She has a lot of support from the athletic department and we’re [here] to see what she has with the future of this place.“
Parents who attended the event were also at Hofstra for Parents & Family Weekend, an annual event that starts the Fall Fest festivities.
“It’s great and exciting to have a new president in, and I’m looking forward to getting to know her better,” said Yvonne Linney, here for parent weekend with her freshman son.
Staff members shared their excitement to be in attendance at the inauguration.
”I feel like being a part of this was super special, you know. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Jackie Hulse, a communications assistant at University Relations. “To see the first woman president inaugurated is something you don’t get to see very often. To be a part of Hofstra’s history is something I couldn’t pass up.”
Among the speakers at the event was someone from Capitol Hill who sent a pre-recorded video to welcome Hofstra’s new president. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) addressed Poser and the Hofstra community.
“I’m sorry I can’t be with you all on campus today, but there are a few things going on in Washington these days,” Schumer said. “That said, I wouldn’t dream of missing the opportunity of this wonderful, wonderful occasion.”
As part of her inaugural introduction, Poser selected academic leaders and scholars who have known her throughout her career to speak. Daniel E. Dawes, JD, a former student of President Poser, spoke about the impact she has had on him throughout his career.
“[To] me and many others, she has always been a light to which many have been lit. A shining light, that no one would dare, or could, dim. I count myself very fortunate among them,” Dawes said. “[During] my time at Nebraska Law, one professor in particular pushed me like no other. This professor was able to use her light to illuminate the dark crevices of my mind and push the boundaries of my knowledge.“
Noting Poser’s negotiation and mediation skills, Harvey Peerlman, JD, shared his first-hand experience of her using her skills while off the clock.
“I can confirm your president’s composure and judgement in resolving a heated conflict,” Peerlman said.
Peerlman shared an anecdote regarding a car accident in their neighborhood.
“A car, driven by a not-entirely sober woman from the neighborhood, had braked to avoid hitting a cat. She failed,” he said.
The identity of the struck cat was in question. Peerlman concluded his personal anecdote by telling the Hofstra community how Poser arrived and handled the situation.
“At this point, Susan Poser arrived on the scene in her nightgown, covered by a trench coat, and negotiated a settlement,” he said.
Peerlman’s comedic tone throughout his story was met with laughter from the audience, including Poser.
“I was very humbled by what was said about me; it was way over the top,” Poser said after the ceremony. “But I’m just happy to be here and really looking forward to the future.”
