The University of Nebraska celebrated history today with the installation of Susan Fritz, Ph.D., as interim president. Dr. Fritz, a 30-year veteran of the university who most recently served as executive vice president and provost, becomes the first woman to lead the NU system since its creation 51 years ago.
Representatives of key NU constituencies — students, faculty, the administration and private industry — offered greetings and support to Dr. Fritz, and Board of Regents Chairman Tim Clare presented her with a formal medallion of office as he invited Nebraskans to join together and reflect on the university’s critical role in the life of the state.
Dr. Fritz, a Nebraska native, first-generation college student, three-time NU alum and faculty member, pledged to Nebraskans: “I promise I will work every day to make you proud.
“It is a great honor and an even greater responsibility to serve the University of Nebraska, my alma mater, in this way,” she said, praising NU’s 52,000 students, talented faculty, staff and administration who, together with partners in government, education, agriculture and the philanthropic community, have built an impressive trajectory for the university and state.
“I will do everything I can to help our university be as great as it can possibly be.”
Dr. Fritz assumes the presidency at a time of significant momentum for the university. In recent years, NU has celebrated record highs in enrollment, research and student success, as well as increased collaboration and efficiency among the campuses. She has noted that a primary goal is continue that momentum through the leadership transition.
Dr. Fritz noted that the university has a responsibility to help address urgent challenges facing the state, including workforce shortages and a growing need for quality and affordable education, health care, technology and services.
“These are high callings,” she said. “But I have every confidence the University of Nebraska can meet them.”
Dr. Fritz will remain in the interim president role until the board completes its national search for the next president and her successor is in place.