The Lawrence University Board of Trustees, along with the Lawrence University Alumni Association and Lawrence University Community Council, are excited to announce the Inauguration of Laurie A. Carter as the 17th President of Lawrence University.

Beacon on the River-The Inauguration of President Laurie A. Carter

President Laurie A. Carter, the 17th president to hold office since 1847, was officially welcomed to Lawrence University with a light-filled inauguration ceremony in Memorial Chapel, marking a major moment in the 175-year history of the liberal arts college.

Main Hall cupola lit up at night following the Inauguration ceremony of President Laurie A. Carter

Inauguration Ceremony

A light-filled ceremony took place in Memorial Chapel on Friday, May 13, followed by a celebration in the Conservatory's Music-Drama building.

Interior of chapel during presidential inauguration
Alex Rothstein, Earl Simons, Aaron Brenton, and Carl Allen perform Blues March during the inauguration ceremony.
President Laurie A. Carter talks with two people at the Brighter Together Picnic.
Chapel illuminated after Laurie A Carter inauguration ceremony
President Laurie A Carter hugs Robert Battle
President Laurie Carter's son, Carter Walker Robinson, places the Chain of Office on his mother.
Inside of Lawrence Chapel

Watch the Ceremony


The Lawrence University Board of Trustees, along with the Lawrence University Alumni Association and Lawrence University Community Council, are excited to announce the Inauguration of Laurie A. Carter as the 17th President of Lawrence University.

President Laurie Carter

Get to know Laurie A. Carter


Carter comes to Lawrence after serving as president of Shippensburg University in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, since 2017. Her tenure at Shippensburg focused on prioritizing student success, telling the university’s story, building a relationship with the community, and enhancing overall quality. Prior to Shippensburg, Carter served as executive vice president and university counsel for Eastern Kentucky University. Her extensive leadership experience in higher education also extends to the performing arts, including 25 years of service at The Juilliard School.

Questions? 

Contact the Office of Alumni and Constituency Engagement at alumni@lawrence.edu or 920-832-7019.