PURSUING TRUTH, BEAUTY AND THE GOOD

QUINCY UNIVERSITY INAUGURATES ITS 24TH PRESIDENT, DR. BRIAN MCGEE

by Jen Wingerter ’13

IN BECOMING QU’S 24TH PRESIDENT, I HAVE TAKEN ON THE DUTY TO PROTECT AND BUILD ON THE HERITAGE OF THIS UNIVERSITY, BEGINNING WITH THE FRANCISCAN FRIARS WHO STARTED A COLLEGE ON THE ILLINOIS FRONTIER, 160 YEARS AGO.

Quincy University ushered in a new era of transformation and leadership with the inauguration of Brian McGee, PhD as its president on Friday, February 28, 2020.

With a commitment to pursue truth, beauty, and good, McGee accepted responsibility as the 24th president of Quincy University before an enthusiastic crowd including, religious leaders, city officials, community leaders, staff, faculty, and students.

Formerly, provost of the College of Charleston, McGee brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role of president. He has served as chief-of-staff and senior vice president of executive administration and as a tenured professor and chair of communication.

A week of festivities led up to the inauguration day, including a community service event, academic showcase, special lecture with Darrin Hicks, PhD, professor of communication studies, University of Denver, sporting events, and a band concert featuring QU’s Symphonic Band.

During the ceremony, introductory remarks were made by Darrin Hicks, before the investiture of the president. Del Mitchell, chair of the Board of Trustees and President Emeritus Phil Conover ’19, DHL (hc), bestowed the presidential regalia and medallion on McGee. Ken Oliver, PhD, professor of school and community counseling, was convener for the ceremony. Fr. John Doctor ’72, OFM, vice president for mission and ministry, delivered the invocation, and Bishop Fernand Cheri III, OFM, provided the benediction. Brian McGee pictured with his parents, Jim and Carolyn, and his children, Emily and Brandon.

AT QU, WE WILL PURSUE AND CHALLENGE OUR STUDENTS TO MAKE HARD CHOICES BECAUSE DOING SO IS RIGHT, AND IT IS NO LESS RIGHT THAT WE DO SO WHEN THE WORK IS DIFFICULT AND DAUNTING.

Just two weeks after celebrating the inauguration, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic, and the United States declared a national emergency concerning the outbreak. As the world shut down, McGee led the university with seamless communication. He equipped staff and faculty with the knowledge they needed to make appropriate decisions as the university moved all coursework online. He sent daily communication to the campus community, making sure everyone had the most up-to-date information as the university navigated the crisis. As the university faces an uncertain future in the wake of the coronavirus, McGee has proven the institution is in good hands.