Nov 22
Aug 20, 2024
Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, sworth@lssu.edu, 906-635-2689
(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) — Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is pleased to announce the investiture of Dr. David Travis as its 11th President. The ceremony, held at the university’s Arts Center on August 20, 2024, began with an introduction by Dr. Kimberly Muller, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. The ceremony featured the formal installation of Dr. Travis, conducted by Tim Lukenda, Chair of the Board of Trustees. This significant act marked a pivotal step in the university’s progress and future direction, underscoring the new leadership’s dedication to academic excellence and community engagement.
Lukenda remarked on the significance of the occasion, stating, “Today represents a seminal moment for Lake Superior State University. Dr. Travis brings a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking vision to our institution. His unwavering commitment to academic excellence and community engagement aligns perfectly with LSSU’s core values. We are confident that under his leadership, the university will advance to new levels of achievement and prominence.”
Formal installation of Dr. Travis, conducted by Tim Lukenda, Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Dr. Travis, a dual citizen of the United States and Canada, brings extensive experience to LSSU. Holding a BS (1987) and MA (1989) from the University of Georgia and a Ph.D. (1994) from Indiana University, he began his career at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater as a professor with expertise in climatology. Over 24 years, he served in several roles such as Department Chair, Associate Dean, and Dean of the College of Letters & Sciences. Since 2018, Dr. Travis served as Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, focusing on faculty development, change management, and student success.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Travis expressed his deep appreciation for the university’s unique attributes and the responsibilities ahead. “I’m honored to be the eleventh president of Lake Superior State University. When I started in this position, I knew that this university was a special place that has
transformed thousands of students’ lives. However, since that time I’ve come to realize what makes it so special. The amazing commitment of our employees to helping students succeed, the support of the surrounding community, and the beauty of the campus are only some of these reasons. I am blessed to have these foundational characteristics to build upon in leading LSSU to a higher level of prominence. I look forward to the challenge.”
Following the investiture, the Annual Convocation included the introduction of new faculty and updates on academic affairs from Dr. Muller. New staff members were introduced by Kate Bergel, Director of Human Resources, Safety & Risk, and Title IX Coordinator.
The ceremony underscored the university’s rich heritage while marking the beginning of an exciting new era under Dr. Travis’s leadership.
For more information about Lake Superior State University and Dr. Travis’s presidency, please visit LSSU’s website.