By David Nathan 

Addressing more than 600 community members at his inauguration as Lasell University’s 10th president, Eric M. Turner told attendees that the 174-year-old institution will rely on its storied past to chart its future by educating learners of every type.

At a community celebration on October 18 in the Athletic Center, Turner said Lasell’s foundational commitment to lifelong learning will drive its success in the years ahead.

“Lasell’s future lies in teaching learners of every degree of readiness,” Turner told the assembled students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, friends, and campus visitors. “This is why lifelong learning — as professed and taught here at Lasell — is so important in this 21st century, advanced society in which we live.”

While embracing traditional degree programs, Lasell will continue to adapt to a rapidly changing world, Turner said.

“Lasell has been successful throughout our existence by creating high-demand offerings — and there is no reason to stop now,” he said. “In fact, there is the need to innovate more than ever.”

The formal installation ceremony served as the centerpiece of a full day of events that began with an academic colloquium and concluded with a joyous reception under a tent. Nicholas Fernandes ’26 emceed the student processional.

Speakers included former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, Turner’s friend from their days as Harvard students, and representatives of the Lasell community: Arielle Hornbaker ’25, Professor Sara Large, David Hill P’17, Judge Fabiola Pierre White ’04, Anthony Berry ’23 G’24, Samari Auguste ’23 G’24, Lasell Village resident Kay Sloan, and TD Byrd Hughes, director of the Center for Community Based-Learning.

Thank you to our inauguration sponsors:

Key Supporting Sponsors
Chartwells Higher Ed
Commodore Builders
D&S Landscaping and Excavating

Supporting Sponsors
Dimella Shaffer
Newton Wellesley Orthopedic Associates
Sunshine Sign
Tap In Coaching

Sponsors
ABM
CBIZ
Metro West Contracting Corp.
Nelnet
OculusIT
Rasky Partners
The Village Bank

Co-Sponsors
Four Strings Academy
Interstate Rental Service
McCarter & English, LLP
Wing Press
Woodland Golf Club
Xfinity