Inauguration of Dr. David Jones Set for Oct. 1

Published Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Dr. David P. Jones, 11th President of SMSU

Southwest Minnesota State University will formally inaugurate President David Jones during a special ceremony on Thursday, October 1 at 3:00 p.m. in the Central Courtyard on campus. Dr. David P. Jones will be installed as the 11^th permanent president of SMSU.

After the retirement of the 10^th president, Dr. Kumara Jayasuriya, the Minnesota State Board of Trustees appointed Dr. David Jones to serve as interim president beginning July 1, 2025. The Minnesota State System of Colleges and Universities conducted a nationwide search, and on Feb. 18, 2026, the Board of Trustees selected Dr. Jones to serve as the next president.

The inauguration marks a significant moment in the institution's history, bringing together students, faculty, staff, alumni, community members, and invited guests to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter for Southwest Minnesota State University.

The ceremony will include a procession of delegates and SMSU faculty as well as the official oath of office, investiture, and presentation of the symbols of office. Minnesota State Chancellor Scott Olson will officiate the ceremony.

Presidential inaugurations are among the most important traditions in higher education, symbolizing both the continuation of a university's mission and a renewed vision for its future. As only the 11th president in SMSU's history, Jones's inauguration represents a milestone for the university and an opportunity to reflect on its legacy while looking ahead to new opportunities.

To support the event, the SMSU Foundation Board of Directors approved funding previously set aside for this historic occasion.

"The Foundation Board recognizes the importance of this moment for the university and is pleased to support the inauguration," said Cindy Verschaetse, president of the SMSU Foundation Board of Directors. "These occasions provide a meaningful opportunity to celebrate institutional traditions, welcome leadership, and bring together the many people who care deeply about SMSU's success."

Nathan Polfliet, vice president for advancement and executive director of the SMSU Foundation, said the inauguration offers a unique opportunity to recognize a significant milestone in the university's history.

"Inaugurations are rare events that help define an institution's story and aspirations for the future," Polfliet said. "As we carefully steward Foundation resources and remain focused on our long-term priorities, we also recognize the value of marking important moments that strengthen pride, connection, and engagement across the SMSU community."

Additional details about the inauguration are available on www.smsu.edu/go/inauguration. Both the ceremony and the reception to follow are free and open to the public.