'Our potential is limitless': Lake State's new prez takes the reins

At his investiture, Lake Superior State University's eleventh president, Dr. David Travis, told our sister site SooLeader that he is eager to get to work.

"Two months in and loving every minute of it," Travis said. "I knew there would be some challenges, but I think the challenges are not as great as I thought they might be to overcome. We have some enrollment challenges and some budgetary things we are working on. We have a plan. I knew there would be some great things that I would learn about and those have been better than I have expected."

In his speech inside the Arts Center, he noted how much the administration and board of directors have worked with him already in his short time at LSSU.

"The board has been nothing but supportive allowing me to bring ideas forward with an open mind to create a foundation for a trusting relationship." he said. "I want to make this campus a more vibrant place and demonstrating our values to the Soo area and the surrounding region. Our potential is limitless."

Following the investiture, the annual convocation included the introduction of new faculty and updates on academic affairs. New staff members were introduced by Kate Bergel, Director of Human Resources, Safety & Risk, and Title IX Coordinator.

Dr. Travis' biography can be found here.

Below is the full text of a news release from Lake Superior State University: 

Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is pleased to announce the investiture of  Dr. David Travis as its 11th President. The ceremony, held at the university’s Arts Center on Aug. 20, 2024, began with an introduction by Dr. Kimberly Muller, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. The ceremony featured the formal installation of Dr. Travis, conducted by Tim Lukenda, Chair of the Board of Trustees. This significant act marked a pivotal step in the university’s progress and future direction, underscoring the new leadership’s dedication to academic excellence and community engagement.  

Lukenda remarked on the significance of the occasion, stating, “Today represents a seminal moment for Lake Superior State University. Dr. Travis brings a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking vision to our institution. His unwavering commitment to academic excellence and community engagement aligns perfectly with LSSU’s core values. We are confident that under his leadership, the university will advance to new levels of achievement and prominence.”

Dr. Travis, a dual citizen of the United States and Canada, brings extensive experience to LSSU. Holding a BS (1987) and MA (1989) from the University of Georgia and a Ph.D. (1994) from Indiana University, he began his career at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater as a professor with expertise in climatology.  Over 24 years, he served in several roles such as Department Chair, Associate Dean, and Dean of the College of Letters & Sciences. Since 2018, Dr. Travis served as Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, focusing on faculty development, change management, and student success.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Travis expressed his deep appreciation for the university’s unique attributes and the responsibilities ahead. “I'm honored to be the eleventh president of Lake Superior State  University. When I started in this position I knew that this university was a special place that has 

transformed thousands of students' lives. However, since that time I've come to realize what makes it so special. The amazing commitment of our employees to helping students succeed, the support of the surrounding community, and the beauty of the campus are only some of these reasons. I am blessed to have these foundational characteristics to build upon in leading LSSU to a higher level of prominence. I  look forward to the challenge.”

Following the investiture, the Annual Convocation included the introduction of new faculty and updates on academic affairs from Dr. Muller. New staff members were introduced by Kate Bergel, Director of Human Resources, Safety & Risk, and Title IX Coordinator.

The ceremony underscored the university's rich heritage while marking the beginning of an exciting new era under Dr. Travis's leadership.