Speeches & Writings

Trilogy “Blacks in America 400+ years”

February 10, 2019

At WashU, we aim to make hope more visible.  At WashU, we aim to hear the voice of struggle and resilience in order to achieve progress.  At WashU, we aim to enhance our institutional efforts to make Washington University a place where all people feel represented, safe, valued, and included members of our community.  And at WashU, we aim to act responsibly as we care for our students, faculty, staff, and patients here in St. Louis and throughout the world.

Speeches & Writings

The 32nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration

January 21, 2019

All of us, regardless of background or experience, benefit from being part of a diverse and inclusive community. It’s not just about succeeding or benefitting, though. Beyond that, it’s also about thriving and flourishing. As human beings, when we work on our own selves and strive to communicate and collaborate across our differences, we begin to create a university, local community, nation, and world that truly flourishes.

Speeches & Writings

A welcome message from the Chancellor-elect

January 14, 2019

I am delighted and honored to return to campus to serve as your 15th Chancellor. Washington University in St. Louis is a vibrant institution filled with tradition; rich with diversity; committed to innovation, progress, and inclusion; and marked by leaders who have paved a course for a thriving future.

Speeches & Writings

Welcome remarks

September 25, 2018

It’s so great to be back home. The past four years for me and my family in Ann Arbor have been a fantastic experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve another great institution. But, there is no place like here — and no place like home.