It was standing room only in Dalton Lobby as the crowd awaited the reveal of the portrait of Converse’s tenth president and first president of Converse University, Krista Newkirk. 

The iconic Wilson Hall was overflowing with faculty, staff, student leaders, Board of Trustees members, and alumni for the official portrait reveal on Wednesday, September 14, 2022. Guests from the Converse community mingled with President Newkirk and her husband, Lew Glenn, who flew in from California for this notable event.

The portrait, positioned regally beside the speaker podium, was covered with a gold silk sheet as guests were welcomed by Board of Trustees Chair Sandra Morelli ’78 and Life Trustee William Barnet, III.

President Boone J. Hopkins delivered his remarks with his usual enthusiasm and wit, speaking to Newkirk’s focus on enhancing equity and women’s leadership. Hopkins said Newkirk’s dedicated efforts have expanded Converse’s influence and mission, and will provide greater opportunities for the future generations of Converse students and alumni.

Newkirk was beaming and appreciated the hearty welcome back to Converse. She gave a special thank you to the presidential portrait artist, Michele Rushworth, saying she specifically selected a woman to create her portrait. Newkirk spoke of her admiration for Converse’s mission and values, and stated she had never heard of a better ideal for a higher education institution than of empowering students to “see clearly, decide wisely, and act justly.”

View photo highlights from the evening on Flickr.