The inauguration of Luther College’s 12th president, Bradley M. Chamberlain, Ph.D., took place during Homecoming chapel, Friday, October 3, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. in the Center for Faith and Life, with a reception following at 11:30 a.m.
Friday evening, Luther College celebrated and affirmed its ties with Decorah through an “Inaugural Night on the Town.” All were encouraged to head downtown to enjoy Decorah’s restaurants, shops, and special activities being planned.
The inauguration theme, For the Common Good, highlights the college’s mission to equip students to serve with distinction for the common good. The theme also draws on 1 Corinthians 12:4–7:
“Now there are varieties of gifts but the same Spirit, and there are varieties of services but the same Lord, and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”
Inauguration Live Stream
| 9:45 a.m. | Academic Robing and Processional Lineup Valders Concourse Guests may store personal items in Valders Room 242, which will be locked during the ceremony. |
| 10:30 a.m. | Homecoming Chapel and Convocation: The Inauguration of the 12th President of Luther College – Bradley M. Chamberlain, Ph.D. Center for Faith and Life |
| 11:30 a.m. | Community-wide Reception Center for Faith and Life |
| Evening | Inaugural Night on the Town Enjoy Decorah’s great restaurants, shops and two special events: The Foot-Notes will lead Scandinavian dances at the Vesterheim Commons patio, 520 West Water Street (rain location Vesterheim Commons) from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Student acapella groups will perform at The Landing, 211 College Drive, beginning at 8:30 p.m. |
Inauguration Memento
As a memento of President Chamberlain’s inauguration, guests received a packet of Luther College native prairie seeds. Many of the wildflowers in the seed mix are good for pollinators like the rusty patched bumble bee and monarch butterfly, both endangered species in the Midwest. By planting these seeds, we remember that serving the common good includes care for all God’s creation.
In many ways our students are like these seeds: diverse, filled with potential, and oriented to the sun. May they, like these seeds, grow and flourish in this good soil called Luther College.
