Rougeau President Discusses Higher Education, Commencement Orator, and Pope Francis' Life Experience
Le Moyne College President Dr. Rougeau has had a transformative four-year tenure, gaining valuable insights into the power and challenges of higher education. In a series of interviews, he has shared his experiences and thoughts on the evolving landscape of education.
On November 14th, President Rougeau was interviewed by Ben Lepper '25 and Nathan Howard '25, marking the final interview of the semester. The conversation touched on the College's endowment, recent news surrounding the institution, and the upcoming holiday season.
In an earlier interview on April 9th, the monthly interview for The Spire, President Rougeau discussed financial aid, tough conversations, and Thanksgiving. The interview, which was photographed on campus in Worcester, Massachusetts on November 7, 2024, also highlighted the College's commitment to access and affordability in higher education.
Dr. Rougeau has consistently emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive academic community, adapting to evolving educational needs, and promoting student success and inclusivity. He believes that these values are embodied by Dr. Linda LeMura, who will be the speaker for the 179th Commencement Exercises.
Dr. LeMura, the first female lay person to be named president of a Jesuit Institution of higher education, is passionate about access and affordability to higher education. Her inspiring message is anticipated to motivate graduates by highlighting the significance of perseverance, innovation, and service—qualities that resonate deeply with the mission of Le Moyne College and its vision for preparing future leaders.
President Rougeau has been a role model for many, inspired spiritually and as a leader by Pope Francis, who recently passed away. He looks forward to celebrating the seniors and launching them on their next chapter. After graduation, he plans to take a few days to regroup and then have reunions.
Throughout his tenure, President Rougeau has consistently acknowledged the strength of the community, the dedication of the faculty, and the engagement of the students. He has learned that there is always a new challenge to be dealt with in higher education, but he remains optimistic about the future of Le Moyne College.
- The final interview of the semester on November 14th featured President Rougeau discussing various events, including the College's endowment, recent news, and the upcoming holiday season.
- In an April 9th interview, President Rougeau talked about financial aid, tough conversations, and Thanksgiving, emphasizing the College's commitment to education and self-development, particularly in terms of access and affordability.
- Dr. Rougeau believes that Dr. Linda LeMura embodies the values he champions, as she is slated to speak at the 17th Commencement Exercises, emphasizing perseverance, innovation, and service—qualities essential for education and community leadership.
- President Rougeau has been motivated and inspired by Pope Francis, who recently passed away. He looks forward to celebrating the seniors and launching them on their next chapter before taking a few days to regroup and hold reunions.
- Throughout his tenure, President Rougeau has lauded the strength of the community, the dedication of the faculty, and the engagement of the students, highlighting the importance of fostering an academic community that adapts to the evolving landscape of education.
