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Messiah University
Messiah University

The inauguration of Jon C. Stuckey, Ph.D., as Messiah University's ninth president marked the beginning of a new chapter in the University's history. Centered on the theme, "Living the Lord's Calling: Act Justly. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly." (Micah 6:8), this celebration reflected President Stuckey's commitment to faithful, Christ-centered leadership and Messiah's enduring mission to educate students toward maturity of intellect, character and Christian faith. As we gathered to commemorate this significant milestone, we gave thanks for God's faithfulness throughout Messiah's history and looked forward with hope to the future He is unfolding. 

Read President Stuckey's bio

Watch the Inauguration Ceremony Recording

 

Inauguration Events

The inauguration celebration included the formal installation of President Jon C. Stuckey as Messiah University's ninth president, along with other special events for delegates, invited guests and the campus community.

View the livestream

Students’ Inaugural Ball

  • Oct 10, 2026, 7:00pm - 10:00pm
  • Brubaker Auditorium
  • For undergraduate students only; tickets required; Sponsored by SAB

Inauguration Chapel

  • Oct 13, 2026, 9:30am
  • Brubaker Auditorium
  • For students only

Presidential Inauguration Ceremony

  • Oct 15, 2026, 10:00am – 11:30am
  • Parmer Hall
  • By invitation only

Inauguration Luncheon for Delegates and Guests

  • Oct 15, 2026, 12:00pm – 2:00pm
  • Brubaker Auditorium
  • Ticketed event; by invitation only

Visitor and Delegate Information

We were pleased to welcome delegates, guests and friends to Messiah University for this historica occasion. We are grateful to all who traveled from near and far to join our campus community in celebrating this important milestone in the University's history.

Lodging Local dining and activities Interactive Campus Map Parking Map

Questions? Please email Karin Bisbee, Executive Coordinator, Office of the President, at KBisbee@messiah.edu.

Living the Lord's Calling:

Learn More About President Stuckey

Jon giving away a diploma at commencement. Coverage Jon and a student smiling at the MU picnic Photos Jon and Shari praying together with Campus Ministries. Videos

History of Messiah’s Presidents

Messiah University has enjoyed the courageous leadership of eight visionary past presidents throughout its 100+ year history. Each leader has been passionate about Messiah's role in Christian higher education and worked tirelessly to recruit students, raise funds, expand the physical plant, develop academic and co-curricular programs, and promote church and community relations. Their challenges were different but their goals were the same: to create an environment where students' lives were transformed by an exceptional Christ-centered educational experience.

See Past Presidents

An archival photo of Old Main from Messiah Bible College.

Our Appreciation to the Inauguration Committee

The inauguration celebration would not have be possible without the planning and hard work of the Inauguration Committee—a collaborative and dedicated group of students, administrators, educators, staff and volunteers. Thank you for making  the inauguration of President Stuckey such a memorable milestone for the Messiah community!

Co-Chairs

Karin Bisbee, executive coordinator, Office of the President
Amanda Coffey, chief of staff/executive VP
Carla Gross, vice president of communications and external relations

Committee Members

Abby Book, director of alumni and parent relations 
Jody Brandt, director of conference and event services 
Kaleb Curtis, president, Student Government Association
Ling Dinse, chair, Messiah University Community of Educators
Sherri Hoffman, executive coordinator, communications and external relations
Kenji Kanazawa, catering manager
Abby Love, conference and event coordinator 
Kallie Petersen, administrative assistant, Office of the President
Danielle Ran, executive director of communications
Yonette Schneider, executive coordinator, advancement events
Lauren Sulzbach-Oliveira, dance executive, Student Activities Board
Shari Stuckey (honorary member) 
Cathy Musser (honorary member) 

View All Inauguration Subcommittees