Stony Brook University Inaugurates Andrea Goldsmith as Seventh President

Goldsmith takes the helm of the prestigious New York university after a formal investiture ceremony.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:57pm

A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a repeated icon of a graduation cap in a grid pattern, capturing the energy and significance of Stony Brook University's presidential inauguration.Stony Brook University celebrates the inauguration of its new president, Andrea Goldsmith, with a vibrant pop art tribute to the academic community.Stony Brook Today

Stony Brook University has officially inaugurated Andrea Goldsmith as its seventh president, marking the start of a new era for the prestigious institution. Goldsmith, a renowned scholar and academic leader, was formally invested in a ceremony held at the Stony Brook Arena on April 18, 2026, in front of a crowd of students, faculty, alumni, and community members.

Why it matters

Goldsmith's appointment as Stony Brook's president is seen as a significant milestone for the university, which has a long history of academic excellence and innovation. As the first woman to hold the top leadership role, Goldsmith's inauguration is viewed as an important step towards greater diversity and representation in higher education.

The details

The investiture ceremony featured speeches from Goldsmith, as well as representatives from the State University of New York (SUNY) system and the Stony Brook community. Goldsmith outlined her vision for the university, emphasizing her commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity, sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

  • The investiture ceremony took place on April 18, 2026, at the Stony Brook Arena.
  • Goldsmith was officially appointed as Stony Brook University's seventh president in January 2026.

The players

Andrea Goldsmith

The newly inaugurated seventh president of Stony Brook University, a renowned scholar and academic leader.

Stony Brook University

A prestigious public research university located in Stony Brook, New York, and a member of the State University of New York (SUNY) system.

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What they’re saying

“I am honored and humbled to take on the role of Stony Brook University's seventh president. Together, we will build upon the university's legacy of excellence and forge a path towards an even brighter future.”

— Andrea Goldsmith, President, Stony Brook University

What’s next

In the coming months, President Goldsmith plans to engage with the Stony Brook community to gather input and develop a strategic vision for the university's future. This will include initiatives focused on enhancing student success, fostering interdisciplinary research, and strengthening partnerships with local and regional organizations.

The takeaway

Stony Brook University's inauguration of Andrea Goldsmith as its seventh president marks a significant moment in the institution's history, as it welcomes a new era of leadership committed to advancing the university's reputation for academic excellence and innovation.