A Historic Inauguration: Welcoming President Lamata Mitchell, PhD
Kettering College marked a joyful and historic milestone as the institution officially inaugurated President Lamata Mitchell, PhD, during a ceremony filled with celebration, reflection, and hope for the future.
The inauguration welcomed Dr. Mitchell as the College’s eighth president, a moment that holds special significance for both Kettering College and Kettering Health. Previously serving as Chief Learning Officer, Dr. Mitchell now steps into her role as president, bringing a deep passion for learning, student success, and mission-driven leadership.
The ceremony was attended by a distinguished group of guests, including former Kettering College presidents Nate Brandstater and Peter Bath, elected officials, civic leaders, university presidents, Kettering Health leadership, faculty, staff, and students. Their presence reflected the strong partnerships and shared commitment that surround the College and its mission.
One of the most meaningful moments of the ceremony was the presentation of the Chain of Office, marking the first time in Kettering College’s history that such a symbol has been introduced. This new tradition represents the continuity of leadership, responsibility, and service and will remain a lasting part of the College’s ceremonial life for generations to come.
Music played a powerful role in the celebration, with the Spring Valley Academy Select Choir offering two beautiful musical selections that added reverence and joy to the occasion.
During the ceremony, speakers reflected on Dr. Mitchell’s leadership, faith, and commitment to students. Mike Gentry, Chief Executive Officer, offered words of encouragement, reminding Dr. Mitchell that, “you’ve got a great partner in the sovereign Lord of the universe, and he will guide you and see you through, and you’re going to do great things. We’re glad you’re here.”
Faculty also shared their excitement for the future under Dr. Mitchell’s leadership. Loren Barnhurst, PhD, professor, spoke to her unwavering focus on student success, noting, “One of the things that resonates most strongly with us as faculty is Dr. Mitchell’s clear and consistent focus on student success. That’s my passion. That’s what I believe in. And we are really lucky. I have a president who says, ‘How’s that going to help our students when they graduate?’ This is thrilling to me.”
In her inaugural address, Dr. Mitchell shared reflections on her calling and the path that led her to Kettering College. “When people ask me why Kettering College, it was a sense of circumstances calling where the Lord had been leading me in life,” she said. “It was something I couldn’t say no to. I have finally accepted that my gift is a passion for learning, and my commitment is to help others achieve their academic and professional dreams. That gift informs who I am. That’s my calling.”
The inauguration was more than a ceremony, it was a celebration of community, mission, and the shared belief in education as a force for service and transformation. As Kettering College looks ahead, the institution does so with gratitude for its past, confidence in its leadership, and excitement for what lies ahead.
Watch the full inauguration ceremony and experience this historic day below.
View the full album of photos by clicking the photo below.
