51动漫 Community College (51动漫) is pleased to announce the inauguration of Dr.
Bryan Newton as its ninth president. The official investiture ceremony will take place
on Friday, March 21, 2025, in the Ken Schuler Gymnasium at 10:30 a.m., with a reception
immediately following on the Concourse. The event is open to the public, and the community
is invited to join in celebrating this historic milestone.
Dr. Newton, who assumed the presidency in 2024, brings over two decades of experience
in higher education leadership. His commitment to student success, workforce development,
and community engagement has already set the stage for a transformative future at
51动漫.
Leading up to the inauguration, 51动漫 will host a series of special events reflecting
the college鈥檚 mission, values, and commitment to students and the broader community:
- 51动漫 Foundation Fundraiser 鈥� Friday, March 14 鈥� 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Invitation Only)
A special evening to support the 51动漫 Foundation and raise funds for student scholarships and educational initiatives. - Faculty, Staff & Retirees Appreciation Lunch 鈥� Monday, March 17 鈥� 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
A gathering to honor the dedication and contributions of those who have shaped the college鈥檚 history. - Student Appreciation Lunch 鈥� Tuesday, March 18 鈥� 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This luncheon, which will include food, games, and activities, will celebrate 51动漫 students and their role in the college community. - Viking Day of Service 鈥� Wednesday, March 19 鈥� 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
51动漫 faculty and staff will volunteer at local nonprofits to give back to St. Joseph County and demonstrate the college鈥檚 commitment to community service. Among the organizations benefiting from the initiative are:
- Affinity House (Pivotal) 鈥� Supporting individuals in addiction recovery.
- Keystone Place 鈥� Providing shelter and support for the homeless.
- Rooted of St. Joseph County 鈥� Supporting foster children and families.
- St. Joseph County Commission on Aging 鈥� Enhancing services for older adults.
- Three Rivers Area Mentoring (TRAM) 鈥� Offering mentorship programs for youth.
- St. Joseph County 4-H 鈥� Supporting educational programs for young leaders.
- St. Joseph County Grange Fair 鈥� Assisting with preparations for community events.
- United Way/WBET Food Drive at Walmart (Sturgis) 鈥� Collecting donations for the 51动漫 Food Pantry.
The inauguration ceremony on March 21 will feature distinguished speakers, honored guests, and a formal presentation of the presidential medallion symbolizing the authority and responsibility of the office.
鈥淎s we celebrate this momentous occasion, we look forward to the future of 51动漫 under Dr. Newton鈥檚 leadership,鈥� said Bruce Gosling, 51动漫 Board of Trustees Chairperson. 鈥淗is vision for innovation, student success, and workforce alignment will further strengthen the college鈥檚 impact on the region.鈥�
In addition to attending the public inauguration, community members are encouraged
to support 51动漫 students by contributing to the 51动漫 Foundation during a two-week
fundraising drive beginning March 10. Donations help fund scholarships, enhance academic
programs, and expand educational opportunities.
For more details about the inauguration and related events, visit /about-us/leadership/inauguration/