Inauguration of Rutgers President
President William F. Tate IV articulated an ambitious, future-focused vision for Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, positioning the institution as a dynamic engine of opportunity for students, for the state, and for a rapidly changing world. Speaking before a full audience at Ruth Bader Ginsburg Hall at Rutgers–Newark during his inauguration ceremony on November 7, 2025, Tate—the university’s 22nd president—outlined a leadership agenda centered on access, innovation, and excellence.
He joined Rutgers on July 1, 2025, after serving as president of Louisiana State University (LSU). Tate succeeds Jonathan Holloway, who led Rutgers University for five years.
During his address, Tate unveiled The Edge Fund, a new scholarship initiative designed to champion the next generation of innovators across the arts, sports, science, and technology. “In an era defined by speed, spectacle, and performative acts, we have a moment to demonstrate our commitment to opportunity,” he said. “It exists in every ZIP code and income bracket in New Jersey. It is limited only by our collective focus and imagination.”
“When it comes to students, excellence can be found everywhere,” Tate continued. “Finding it and letting it flourish drives our state, our university, and our communities forward.”
He emphasized that The Edge Fund is intended for students whose talents defy traditional boundaries—artists who code, scientists who write, athletes who lead in non-revenue sports, and visionaries whose imagination, integrity, and skill elevate Rutgers. These students, Tate noted, embody the spirit of discovery and public purpose that defines the university.
“These are the future inductees into the New Jersey Hall of Fame,” he affirmed, underscoring the broad impact he expects these scholars to have on Rutgers and beyond.
The inauguration program featured a stirring performance by the Count Basie Orchestra, led by musical director Scotty Barnhart, with vocalist Carmen Bradford delivering a powerful rendition of the National Anthem. Pastor René F. Brown of Mount Zion First Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, offered the invocation.
Speakers also included student government leaders from Newark, New Brunswick, and Camden. The ceremony concluded with a performance of the Rutgers Alma Mater by the Rutgers University Glee Club.
