University of Indianapolis Celebrates Inauguration Festivities for 10th President, Dr. Tanuja Singh
On April 5th, the University of Indianapolis formally ushered in a new era with the investiture ceremony of Dr. Tanuja Singh as its 10th president. The campus buzzed with anticipation as students, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests gathered to witness the historic event.
“In just nine months, Dr. Tanuja Singh has had a tremendous positive impact on the University of Indianapolis,” said David Resnick, University of Indianapolis Board of Trustees chair. “From her intentional community engagement with our neighbors as well as business leaders, to the creation of a Strategic Plan which capitalizes on UIndy’s strengths while building a prudent vision for the future in a rapidly changing higher education environment, we are so glad to have Dr. Singh lead the University of Indianapolis.”
The inauguration festivities began with a sense of excitement and promise, as the campus hosted Indianapolis corporate and community leaders for a breakfast event highlighted by a panel discussion on the future of workforce development and the role UIndy can play under President Singh’s leadership. The panel was moderated by associate professor of political science Dr. Laura Merrifield Wilson and participants included Vanessa Green Sinders, President of Indiana Chamber of Commerce; Melina Kennedy, CEO of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership; and Chris Lowery, Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education.
The panel brought together experts from academia, industry and policymaking organizations to explore emerging trends and opportunities in the rapidly evolving landscape of work and education. Panelists discussed the need for reskilling and upskilling talent in Indiana, keeping college graduates in Indiana as they begin and advance in their careers, as well as strategies for making education more accessible for Hoosiers.
The panelists engaged in a lively exchange of ideas, discussing topics ranging from technological disruption and workforce automation to the importance of interdisciplinary learning and experiential education. They emphasized the need for universities to adapt and innovate in response to shifting demands and emerging industries, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the 21st-century workforce.
As the investiture ceremony unfolded on Friday afternoon, attendees heard from a number of delegates representing many different constituencies across campus and the city. Those included Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, Board of Trustees vice chair Deborah Daniels, Dr. Jyotika Saksena, president of the UIndy faculty senate, Brenda Bassi, academic success associate and one of the longest serving staff members at the university, and SGA President Stephano Ibarra.
In her inaugural address, Dr. Singh articulated her profound commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth. “We are committed to being a modern university that offers relevant and impactful education, an education that evolves with the needs of the learner,” she remarked. “We are committed to being locally rooted with a global reach. We are committed to partner with all those who believe in the power and the promise of higher education.”
Dr. Singh’s words resonated deeply with the audience, reflecting her visionary approach to higher education and her dedication to preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. Her emphasis on fostering a culture of curiosity, resilience, and lifelong learning struck a chord with attendees, inspiring them to embrace the opportunities and complexities of the future.
Throughout her address, Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of community engagement and partnership in advancing the university’s mission. “Today, as we celebrate this new chapter in the life of this great university, which began in 1902 as Indiana Central College, we proudly embrace our role as the University of Indianapolis – in Indianapolis – for Indianapolis – and with Indianapolis,” she concluded
As the day drew to a close, the inauguration events left a lasting impression on the University of Indianapolis community, inspiring hope, unity, and a renewed sense of purpose. With Dr. Tanuja Singh at the helm, the university is poised to embrace change and lead with distinction in the years to come.
