Presidential Inauguration

On This Trail

The MCLA Board of Trustees is pleased to celebrate the installation of MCLA’s 13th president, Dr. Diana L. Rogers-Adkinson

Diana Rogers-Adkinson, Ph.D.

Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026 at 1 p.m.
Amsler Campus Center Gym

Ceremony Stream

MCLA First Generation Scholarship

MCLA President Rogers-Adkinson and students

As a first-generation college graduate herself, President Rogers-Adkinson understands both the challenges and the life-changing opportunities that higher education provides. Throughout her career, she has championed student success, educational access, and equity, helping students overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

Honor a New Chapter. Empower a First-Generation Student.

Your support will help MCLA students access the resources they need to thrive, persist, and graduate.

Inaugural Gift

Presidential Profile

Dr. Diana L. Rogers-Adkinson is the 13th president of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA). A nationally recognized higher education leader, she is committed to fostering student success, academic excellence, and meaningful partnerships that strengthen both the campus and the surrounding community.

Learn More About President Rogers-Adkinson

What Is a Presidential Inauguration?

A presidential inauguration marks an important milestone in the life of MCLA. It is an opportunity to celebrate the College's history, recognize its mission, and welcome a new chapter of leadership.

As Massachusetts' public liberal arts college, MCLA is dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning, intellectual creativity, public service, and preparing engaged and resilient citizens. An inauguration reaffirms these commitments while looking ahead to new opportunities for students and the broader community.

The ceremony honors the College's traditions while providing the President an opportunity to share a vision for the future. Above all, an inauguration celebrates the people, values, and shared purpose that define MCLA and its enduring impact across the Commonwealth.

MCLA's Tradition of Leadership and Public Purpose

Founded in North Adams in 1894, MCLA has evolved from a teacher-training institution into the Commonwealth's designated public liberal arts college. Throughout its history, the College has remained committed to educational access, academic excellence, civic engagement, and preparing graduates to lead meaningful lives and careers.

A presidential inauguration reflects those enduring commitments. It serves as a moment to honor the College's past, celebrate its present, and inspire a shared vision for its future.

Presidential Chain of Office

The Presidential Chain of Office is one of MCLA's highest ceremonial honors. Worn by the President during inaugurations, commencements, and other academic ceremonies, it symbolizes the leadership, responsibility, and trust placed in the office by the Board of Trustees and the College community.

The Chain of Office also reflects MCLA's legacy as the Commonwealth's public liberal arts college. It connects the President to generations of students, faculty, staff, and alumni who have shaped the institution since its founding in 1894.

During the inauguration ceremony, the presentation of the Chain of Office formally signifies the President's commitment to advancing MCLA's mission and serving the College community.

Presidential Installation

Saturday, Oct. 3 2026

Ceremony Stream