Karim Ismaili inaugurated as Eastern’s seventh president

April 11, 2025, marked a momentous occasion for Eastern Connecticut State University, as the campus community celebrated the inauguration of President Karim Ismaili. The day’s events centered around a ceremony in the Concert Hall of the Fine Arts Instructional Center, where hundreds of Eastern community members, state dignitaries, and delegates from peer institutions gathered to witness the investiture of Eastern’s seventh president in 136 years. 

“Today marks a significant moment in Eastern’s history,” said Senate President and Professor William Lugo, who presided over the ceremony. “This is a time to reflect on our rich history, to celebrate our collective accomplishments, and to look forward to a future shaped by new leadership and vision.” 

Praising the ceremony and the beautiful Concert Hall venue, Ismaili remarked, “This gathering is a reminder to all of us that Eastern is a gem of Connecticut public higher education.” 

He reflected on the significance of moments like university inaugurations, which connect institutions to the trailblazing developments that precede them — such as the founding of the Willimantic State Normal School in 1889, the institution from which Eastern emerged. 

“All colleges and universities share a common DNA,” he said. “For universities like Eastern, this is made manifest through an unwavering commitment to extending the promise of higher education to everyone who wishes to pursue their dreams … to those who may not see themselves as deserving, capable, or financially able.” 

A Story of Resilience

In his address, Ismaili shared reflections on his journey, starting with his upbringing in London during the 1970s. He and his younger brother, Rahim, were raised by their mother, Rabia—an immigrant from Kenya — during a time of intense social unrest. His mother divorced his violent father when Karim was seven years old. 

“For a while, we were protected by court orders. When that was not enough, we went into hiding, moving from one place to another,” he recalled. “During this time, we could only go to school when it seemed safe. … Education was a luxury and a lifeline.” 

At age 13, Ismaili, his brother, and their mother escaped to Canada. Rabia instilled in her sons the values of respect, compassion, hard work, and education. She passed away this past December. “She was our inspiration, our North Star,” he said. “We miss her so much.” 

Listening and Learning 

Ismaili recounted his Listening and Learning Tour, in which he met with all university stakeholder groups in 28 sessions during the fall and spring semesters. “My goal was to gain a deeper understanding of Eastern from those who know it best.” 

This tour revealed to him “the best of what we are,” reflected in the community’s welcoming spirit, distinct mission, academic excellence, caring culture, regional leadership, and inspiring campus. 

“But what stood out most during the listening and learning sessions was something even more powerful: Affection — a genuine, abiding affection for Eastern … encompassing love, care, and commitment.” 

Ismaili acknowledged declining public confidence in American higher education over recent decades. “We must see this confidence gap as an opportunity — a chance to reaffirm why higher education matters,” he urged. 

“Our true value comes from contributing to the intellectual growth, social development, and well-being of our students.” 

Ismaili emphasized Eastern’s local impact: 92 percent of students come from Connecticut, and 86 percent of graduates remain in the state to live and work. He praised the University’s commitment to diversity, community engagement, and accessible liberal arts education — values that help students grow into thoughtful citizens, adaptable professionals, and impactful leaders. 

A Warning from Orwell 

Turning his attention to the current national political climate, Ismaili referenced one of his favorite authors, George Orwell, known for his warnings about authoritarianism in classic novels such as 1984 and Animal Farm. 

In the last few weeks, executive orders from the current presidential administration have begun dismantling the United States Department of Education, withholding federal funding from institutions with DEI initiatives, and revoking visas for outspoken students against Israel’s war in Gaza. 

“At the start of this academic year, I did not anticipate thinking about Orwell in the way that I do now. … But context is everything.” 

Pledging his commitment to the core values of open dialogue and inquiry in higher education, Ismaili said, “Together, we have the extraordinary capacity to introduce students to audacious minds, groundbreaking ideas, and the awesome power of discovery.” 

“I submit to you that our work together comes at a moment in which Eastern has never mattered more.” 

Words of Endorsement 

One of the ceremony’s distinguished guest speakers was Ismaili's mentor, Dana Mohler-Faria, president emeritus of Bridgewater State University. 

Mohler-Faria's connection to Eastern goes decades back when he was mentored by the late David Carter, Eastern’s fifth president. “It is surreal for me to be a mentor to the current president of Eastern,” he said, “the institution where my mentor was president.” 

Sharing Carter’s wisdom, he said,  “To be a great leader, you must not only ‘be’ the president; you must bring the core and essence of who you are to the presidency every day.” 

He expressed his confidence in Ismaili. “His path to this position was not accidental nor incidental. Dr. Ismaili is the right person, at the right time, in the right place. ... He envisions a positive and inclusive world and understands how to empower the institution’s people to become a transformative force.” 

Another distinguished speaker was Ismaili’s sister-in-law, Lisa Drzewucki. She joked about having the opportunity to “finally dish the dirt,” only to discover there was no dirt to dish. 

“He is a true rarity — a person who actually walks the walk and talks the talk. ... Sincerity and integrity, that’s what Karim brings to the table.” 

She noted how national political discourse has drifted from higher education’s core values of academic excellence, engagement, inclusion, integrity, and social responsibility. “All noble ideals, and not coincidentally the ideals of your new president.” 

Turning her remarks to Ismaili’s marriage with her sister Wendy, Drzewucki said, “Over the years, I’ve watched their relationship mature, grow, and redefine itself … while always maintaining their mutual love and respect.” 

Comparing Ismaili’s presidency to marriage and to the coaching staff of Liverpool Football Club — of which Ismaili is a die-hard fan — she said to the campus community, “You have really hit the jackpot.” 

Reflections from Campus and Community 

Speaking on behalf of the faculty, Professor of Psychological Science Peter Bachiochi drew on his 25 years at Eastern and his expertise in industrial organizational psychology. 

He joked about not having sufficient data to draw a definitive conclusion, but said after one academic year, “I like what I see. ... I can already see that Karim is an inclusive leader.” 

Bachiochi said that inclusion “is the secret sauce that helps an organization run more smoothly and makes a classroom fire on all cylinders.” He noted research that shows inclusion fosters feelings of belonging, increases organizational commitment, and improves employee performance.   

He praised the president’s Listening and Learning Tour, evoking the three “Cs” of inclusive leadership — curiosity, connection, and courage — saying Ismaili has already demonstrated the first two. “As for the third C: It certainly takes courage to be a university president!” 

“I am happy to say that I see in him a leader who will take what we have built here at Eastern and bring us to new heights.” 

Senior history major Emma McCormack spoke on behalf of the students, reflecting on Eastern’s transformative environment. 

“Like many students at the start of their undergraduate journey, I was searching for direction and purpose. … Eastern is a place that recognizes potential before students recognize it in themselves.” 

She recalled meeting Ismaili for the first time while dressed up as former First Lady Jackie Kennedy for a history project. “Since then, every time he sees me, he greets me with a reference to Jackie,” she said. “While this may seem small, it speaks to something far greater—it reflects a university where students are truly seen and valued.” 

McCormack praised Eastern for its supportive community in developing students. “Under his leadership, I have no doubt that Eastern will continue to inspire, challenge, and empower the next generation of students.” 

Statewide Recognition 

Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) Chancellor Terrence Cheng praised Ismaili’s kind and compassionate spirit. As a first-generation college student and immigrant raised by a single mother, “Dr. Ismaili understands the transformational power of public higher education,” Cheng said. 

CSCU Board of Regents Chair Marty Guay highlighted Ismaili’s deep connection with Eastern’s mission and students. “He believes in the power of higher education to transform lives and communities,” said Guay. “Like him, many Eastern students are first-generation college students.” 

State Senator Mae Flexer delivered remarks on behalf of Governor Ned Lamont, whose administration proclaimed April 11 as “Dr. Karim Ismaili Day” in the State of Connecticut. The proclamation celebrated Eastern’s legacy, economic impact, and Ismaili’s personal mission to support students and lead the University into a new era. 

The ceremony also featured musical performances by Professor Emily Riggs and the Eastern Concert Chorale, conducted by Professor David Belles with piano accompaniment by Eric Ouellette. Among the chorale's performances was a surprise rendition of "You'll Never Walk Alone," the anthem of the Liverpool Football Club — Ismaili's favorite team.  

The Charge Forward 

Following the investiture, the Concert Hall audience paraded to the Student Center for a lively “charge” ceremony and reception. Led by Dean of Students Kemesha Wilmot, more than 10 campus and community representatives formally charged Ismaili to uphold Eastern’s values as a student-centered, academically rigorous, community-engaged, employee-supportive, and culturally inclusive institution. 

Charge speakers included Windham Mayor Tom DeVivo, alumnus Thomas Gibson ’96, SGA President Mia Sommers ’25, the current presidents of Eastern’s faculty, administrative faculty, and clerical unions, and more.  

Junior economics major Gabriela Varela Santana spoke on behalf of students. A native of Atlanta, she reflected on her growth as a student leader at Eastern and the diverse community she’s discovered on campus. 

“The lessons I’ve learned at Eastern — about kindness, resilience, and community — will stay with me forever,” she said. “Just like President Ismaili, we will be the kind of leaders who shape the future with courage and compassion.”