Eric Kaler was officially inaugurated as the 16th president of the University of Minnesota last Thursday, Sept. 22. He had been serving as president since July 1, when former President Bob Bruininks left after nine years in office.

Kaler, who got his Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University in 1982, is the second alumnus to serve as  president. The first was Malcom Moos – president from 1967-1974.

Below is his entire inauguration speech: