Salisbury University president delivers State of the University Address
Salisbury, Md. – Among President Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre’s remarks during the university’s State of the University address, she acknowledged the controversial event to be hosted at the university featuring self-described “white advocate” Jared Taylor.
She said that while the university condemns the rhetoric, it was the university’s duty to allow people to exercise their first amendment right while protecting the well-being of those on campus. The event has yet to be rescheduled.
“This reminds me why universities matters so, so much,” Lepre said. “They are places where learning helps us navigate difficult moments, where ideas are examined and where communities can come together.”
Afterwards, she welcomed a new general counsel, a new VP of student affairs and new interim dean of Clarke honors college and lauded the achievements of staff, faculty and students.
Lepre said the university welcomed 7,243 total students this year, saying about one third identify from underrepresented backgrounds and 2150 students were on the dean’s list. She said the university was on track to meet its goal to enroll 8,200 students and have 12% of those be graduate students.
The president also touted the university’s recognition from prestigious outlets such as U.S. News and World Report for certain programs and the Princeton Review for the university’s strides in sustainability.
Lepre also acknowledged funds raised during last year’s giving day, saying that on just the one day, more than half a million dollars were raised. She also acknowledged $2 million in funding from State of Maryland for performing arts center and thanked Governor Wes Moore and Secretary of Housing and Community Development Jake Day for their continued investment in the university.
She spoke at length about the university’s 100-year history and spoke about a feedback process for the that faculty, staff and students are encouraged to participate in. She also addressed unique challenges facing Maryland’s Eastern Shore community including environmental changes threatening the local economy as well as a shortage of health care providers. With the expansion of certain programs and majors that have to do with fields in medicine and environmental sciences and studies, Lepre said SU remains the intellectual, cultural and economic anchor to the Eastern Shore.
Correction: An earlier version of this story said the event would be held next month, however there has been no rescheduled date at this time. The event will also be hosted at the university rather than by the university.
