New Leader for a New Century
The October 9 inauguration at Philadelphia’s Kimmel Center featured Aldridge outlining her seven-point plan for the future, a stunning performance by soprano Beautiful Sheriff, and numerous greetings of the new president.
Attendees included 30 delegates from other colleges and universities, local business leaders, elected officials and Jefferson alumni, students, faculty, staff, leaders, and members of the board of trustees.
“With your support, I’m committed to helping us reach—and exceed—our greatest expectations for the century ahead,” said Aldridge, who served as University interim president for a year and a member of the board of trustees from 2022 to 2023. “We will make Jefferson the first-choice University for future generations of prospective students at every stage.”
Noting the significance of the inauguration during Jefferson’s bicentennial, Cacchione said the University sought a leader with a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, an acute understanding of higher education’s intricacies, and a deep appreciation of the school’s history.
“We believe in Dr. Aldridge’s ability to lead us into the next chapter,” he said. “Today, we entrust her with the welfare of our University, knowing she will meet the future challenges with vision, creativity, and wisdom. I’m certain the success and momentum we have achieved over the last 200 years of this University will continue to flourish under her leadership.”
In his remarks, chair-elect of the board of trustees Michael Sneed stressed the day’s significance, noting that under Aldridge’s leadership, Jefferson will have a profound impact on our communities and society in the years to come.
Nioka Wyatt, fashion merchandising and management program director, and Howard Weitz, MD ’78, senior associate dean of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, represented the Jefferson faculty at the inauguration. Weitz praised Aldridge for a lifetime of innovation in education, and Wyatt called her a transformative leader whose influence inspires faculty in teaching and research.
Mark Greenberg, PhD, provost emeritus and distinguished professor at Drexel University, provided perspective from academia, saying, “In Dr. Susan Aldridge, Jefferson honors its history and reputation for excellence by selecting a leader with exceptional qualities of mind and heart. She’s a person who listens and learns, acts decisively and fairly, and whose warmth and caring motivates others.”
Alumnus and trustee Drew Morrisroe ’96, MBA ’99 affirmed that Aldridge’s vision, values, and dedication will inspire Jefferson to new heights, fostering a culture that empowers students, supports faculty, and deepens the connection with the surrounding community.
Other members of the Jefferson community saluted Aldridge, including students Adrian Buchter and Brittany Chavez; Tim Butler, associate dean of students on East Falls Campus; Kate FitzPatrick, DNP, RN, executive vice president and the Connelly Foundation Chief Nurse Executive Officer for Jefferson Health; and Matt Dane Baker, provost and chief academic officer. In addition, dozens of college and university presidents from across the country shared congratulatory messages.
Aldridge remained committed and humble amid everyone’s praise. “Today is about showcasing the many accomplishments made by every member of our vast and diverse Jefferson community,” she stressed. “You’re the inspiration and the energy behind our success.”
We believe in Dr. Aldridge’s ability to lead us into the next chapter. Today, we entrust her with the welfare of our University, knowing she will meet the future challenges with vision, creativity, and wisdom. I’m certain the success and momentum we have achieved over the last 200 years of this University will continue to flourish under her leadership.
For much of Aldridge’s presidential address, she discussed her seven-point plan for Jefferson, one that aligns with the University’s mission, vision, and values and provides students with an “exceptional” return on their tuition investment.
“Of course, it’s one thing to identify our big-picture goal for the next 100 years, quite another to fulfill it,” she said. “To ensure that we have all the right pieces in place, we will need an unwavering resolve and a collaborative spirit to focus our future on what I propose.”
Aldridge’s plan includes:
- Focusing on a high-touch, high-impact, real-world learning environment
- Continuing to build a robust portfolio of digital tools to augment Jefferson’s signature Nexus Learning approach
- Strengthening Sidney Kimmel Medical College’s reputation in teaching and research
- Fostering a culture that advances and sustains diversity and belonging
- Cultivating environmental stewardship, sustainability, and social responsibility
- Enhancing Jefferson’s reputation as a preferred employer
- Maintaining a solid commitment to continued quality improvement, grounded in a fully transparent and data-driven self-assessment and decision-making process.
Aldridge closed her address by promising to be a thoughtful, well-informed, resourceful leader who rewards accomplishments and appreciates teamwork and new challenges. And as a tireless champion of Jefferson, she will never compromise the University’s high standards.
“In just a few short months, the clock will begin ticking on Jefferson’s next 100 years as a powerful institution at the forefront of higher education,” she concluded. “I ask that you join me now in making this new era as remarkable as our first 200 years. Together, we will take risks and embrace the opportunities, learn from our mistakes, celebrate our victories, and harness the enormous talent on our campuses to lead ahead of the academic curve. Welcome to the third century of Thomas Jefferson University.”