Kentucky State University Celebrates Inauguration of 19th President, Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo
On Friday, September 20, 2024, Kentucky State University (KSU), hundreds gathered to witness the historic inauguration of Kentucky State University's (KSU) 19th president, Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, and pay tribute to KSU’s long legacy and exciting future ahead.
The inauguration oath of office ceremony was preceded by a luncheon in the Carl M. Hill Student Center Ballroom. Speakers testified to Dr. Akakpo’s dedication to KSU and its students and their eager anticipation for his inauguration. Notably, the City of Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson and Franklin County Judge/ Executive Michael Mueller gave a joint city and county proclamation declaring that Friday, September 20, 2024 was Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo day in the city of Frankfort and throughout Franklin County, gathering cheers and applause from all attendees.
In his address at the inauguration luncheon, Mayor Wilkerson remarked, “We stand here today on the brink of a new era, not only for KSU but for the city of Frankfort also. The inauguration of Dr. Koffi Akakpo marks a turning point in this university. This institution has shaped countless lives over the last 138 years and contributed so much to the fabric of our city. I have full confidence that under Dr. Akakpo’s leadership this university is not only going to get stronger but it’s going to expand its impact across this state and beyond. His vision and commitment to excellence is exactly what this university needs to steer us into the future.”
Celebrations continued as guests headed to David H. Bradford Hall to witness the start of a new chapter at KSU, filled with hope and perseverance. The ceremony included a processional of the KSU community, musical performances, and speeches by KSU alumni and students all of which represented the rich heritage of KSU. Representatives from the Commonwealth also shared their congratulations and included Dr. Aaron Thompson, President of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, Representative Bobby McCool, Senator Gerald A. Neal, and videos from Senator Mitch McConnell and Governor Andy Beshear.
The Oath of Office was administered by the Chair of the Board of Regents, Tammi Dukes. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause as the newly inaugurated President Akakpo was ceremoniously robed in presidential regalia and presented with the presidential medallion, reflecting his commitment to lead and serve KSU.
Dr. Akakpo began his inaugural address by expressing his deep gratitude for everyone who has helped him discover his purpose in life, believed in him, and helped him become who he is today.
Thereafter Dr. Akakpo reflected on his first year as president at KSU.
“My first year as president at Kentucky State University has been very challenging, hectic, and frantic. Faculty, staff, and students, I believe you have felt it as well. We all have worked extremely hard despite repeated pressures and frustrations dealing with budgetary issues, financial and internal control challenges, multiple past year audits, accreditation issues, low enrollment, academic and student services challenges, several dorms and building issues, just to name a few...” shared Dr. Akakpo. “I am extremely proud of how we all have approached these challenges. Thanks to our Board of Regents, legislature, alumni, community leaders, business partners, and supporters we have been able to turn the page successfully.”
Dr. Akakpo shared some of the remarkable results that KSU has achieved over the past fourteen months some of which included:
- KSU has balanced the budget for the first time in many years and began building a fund balance which was nonexistent previously
- KSU was awarded 44 grants that brought in about $34 million for research including the prestigious $7 million grant from the National Science Foundation – the largest single competitive grant in the history of the university
- The School of Nursing at KSU is experiencing remarkable growth, with bachelor’s degree enrollment up by 37% and doctoral degree enrollment up by an impressive 167% since 2019
“Faculty, staff, and students, the critical question I have for you today is ‘how do we lead for impact?’” he questioned. “Leading for impact ‘requires one to fight against the popular tide with conviction and not be afraid to set higher and higher standards to bring about real change.’ This means creating a lasting positive difference while creating a new landscape for success.”
“Our new strategic plan will help steer us forward. Our plan consists of four key pillars that have been designed to sharpen our impact and determine who we are as an institution, what our purpose is, where we want to go, and what it means to lead for impact. Briefly, here are the four key pillars: Affordable Access, Transformative Engagements, Equitable Student Success, and Sustainable Educational Resources,” he continued.
“My commitment to you is to do my best to help KSU lead for impact,” he said.
As the ceremony concluded, the crowd joined together to sing KSU’s Alma Mater, testifying to a spirit of unity and hope for the bright future ahead – onward and upward.