A distinctive atmosphere of hope and commitment The inaugural installation, held in conjunction with Homecoming Weekend, unfolded with a palpable sense of energy that reflected not only a leadership transition but also a recommitment to the College’s mission and future and a shared belief in “the good” that Lycoming cultivates in its people and community. In his inaugural address, Edmonds spoke with heartfelt gratitude and a bold vision for the future. “This is a place that is not interested in the status quo but instead dedicated to the notion that we must continually endeavor to be better… It will be my great honor to steward the collective decisions and investments we make to ensure Lycoming continues to thrive as an institution committed to the most noble of public service: educating students for exceptional careers and service to humanity.” During the ceremony, Edmonds received the Lycoming presidential medallion, a piece commissioned for the College’s 175th anniversary. The medallion features the College seal — a telescope representing the arts and sciences, an open book representing the humanities, and the Greek word aletheia, meaning “truth,” with the names of Lycoming’s 15 past presidents and its founder engraved on the reverse — symbolizing continuity, legacy, and shared leadership. Words of encouragement and shared purpose Among the ceremony’s distinguished speakers was Gregory Jones, Ph.D. ’10H, president of Belmont University, who offered a message that emphasized the importance of leadership guided by hope and service. “Education at its best cultivates a sense of purpose, a sense of character, a sense of wisdom,” said Jones. “The leadership that President Edmonds is equipped to provide, and that I trust he will provide, is to take the best of what Lycoming has been in its past and point it toward a dynamic and creative and innovative future to equip the leaders [that] the communities in Pennsylvania, in this region, in this country, and around the world need.” The fundamental foundation of family Edmonds took a moment to recognize the love and support of his family, who include his parents, Walter ’67 and Peggy (Giauque) ’69 Edmonds, both proud Lycoming graduates; sister Polly (Edmonds) and husband Tom Baldridge and their children, Matthew ’25, William, and Emma; brother Matt ’02 and wife Deb (Weinberg) ’04 Edmonds, and their children, Michael, Noelle, and Hope. “We were raised in a household that revered education, encouraged curiosity, loved music and the performing arts, welcomed different ideas and global cultures, cultivated a disposition of service, and believed deeply in the dignity and goodness of all people.” “And finally, my wife Erin, and our sons, Jacob and Luke. My life is immeasurably richer because of your love, support, and inspiration. Thank you for being here to share in this together,” said Edmonds. Education at its best cultivates a sense of purpose, a sense of character, a sense of wisdom. - Gregory Jones, Ph.D. ’10H President of Belmont University My life is immeasurably richer because of your love, support, and inspiration. - President Edmonds Inauguration address, Oct. 4, 2025 12 LYCOMING COLLEGE 2026 SPRING MAGAZINE
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