St. Thomas celebrated the installation of Dr. Nauman Farooqi as its fourteenth President and Vice-Chancellor, marking the beginning of a new chapter that will see tradition meet innovation and a renewed commitment to transformative education.
Relive Dr. Farooqi's Installation here.
"I am proud to be part of this community of educators and deeply humbled by the confidence shown in me to lead this great institution," Dr. Farooqi said.
"St. Thomas University is indeed a gem. A gem that, like many before me, I have come to admire, appreciate, and now have the privilege to polish and help shine even brighter."
Emphasizing STU's Unique Strengths
Since his appointment on July 1, 2023, Dr. Farooqi has already witnessed the transformative impact of a STU education.
"Most moving of all are the stories from alumni people whose lives were forever changed by the opportunities STU provided. Time and again, I hear the same sentiment: 'STU took a chance on me and changed my life,'" he said.
Looking ahead, Dr. Farooqi emphasized STU's unique strengths in advancing the university's vision for the future.
"I see a university where tradition meets innovation, and every student has the chance to thrive in a changing world," he said.
"Our motto, 'Teach Me Goodness, Knowledge, and Discipline,' is as relevant today as ever. We don't teach students what to think, but how to think critically, creatively, and compassionately. Together, we will ensure STU continues transforming lives and contributing to a better world."
Community and Institutional Greetings - "A Great Future"
Leaders from post-secondary institutions and the community extended their congratulations and best wishes to Dr. Farooqi during the ceremony.
"Today's ceremony brings together a well-respected, experienced, humane, and competent leader with an institution widely esteemed for its great traditions, deep-rooted values, wonderful community, and significant accomplishments. One expects a great, exciting, and consequential future," wrote President Emeritus of Mount Allison University Robert Campbell.
On behalf of alumni, writer and senator, David Adams Richards, praised Dr. Farooqi's leadership and the alignment of his values with the university's enduring legacy.
"Your wide-ranging focus and deep commitment to others prove Cicero's declaration: Honour follows virtue like a shadow; one cannot exist without the other.' I welcome you on behalf of STU Alumni to a place that, for over 115 years, has championed those who found sanctuary here when other doors were closed."
"You are joining a vibrant community of accomplished scholars and dedicated instructors who care deeply about generating, knowledge in a wide range of areas, and sharing and applying that knowledge for the betterment of our university and our students, our community, and our world," said Dr. Mary Lou Babineau-Rosada, Chair of Romance Languages on behalf of faculty.
"We are grateful that you have chosen to call STU your new home, and to lead this incredibly community of caring and talented people. We hope that you feel welcome, that you feel the support of all of us around you."
Cristi Flood-Caristi, Director of Student Recruitment, extended her welcome on behalf of staff. "At a time of shifting attitudes towards higher education, the impact of technology, and changing student needs, having an energetic leader who can engage and lead us successfully has never been more important," she said.
Ellie Namit, President of the St. Thomas University Students Union, noted that since 1934, the STUSU has proudly represented our student body. "We take great pride in the diversity of thought, experience, and knowledge that our students, faculty, and staff contribute to this community a foundation that Dr. Nauman Farooqi's leadership will undoubtedly enhance."
The Honourable Brenda L. Murphy, Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick, spoke of the university's spirit and Dr. Farooqi's leadership.
"St. Thomas is a reflection of New Brunswick: a tight-knit, welcoming community where people are willing to help friends and strangers alike. Thanks to the world-class education students receive here, STU graduates are well-equipped to make a difference. As President and Vice-Chancellor, you will inspire them to be change-makers."
Relive Dr. Farooqi's Installation here.
