糖心Vlog (GOCC) is pleased to announce the inauguration of Dr. Bryan Newton as its ninth president. The official investiture ceremony will take place on Friday, March 21, 2025, in the Ken Schuler Gymnasium at 10:30 a.m., with a reception immediately following on the Concourse. The event is open to the public, and the community is invited to join in celebrating this historic milestone.
Dr. Newton, who assumed the presidency in 2024, brings over two decades of experience in higher education leadership. His commitment to student success, workforce development, and community engagement has already set the stage for a transformative future at Glen Oaks.
Leading up to the inauguration, Glen Oaks will host a series of special events reflecting the college鈥檚 mission, values, and commitment to students and the broader community:
- GOCC Foundation Fundraiser – Friday, March 14 鈥 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Invitation Only)
A special evening to support the Glen Oaks Foundation and raise funds for student scholarships and educational initiatives. - Faculty, Staff & Retirees Appreciation Lunch – Monday, March 17 – 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
A gathering to honor the dedication and contributions of those who have shaped the college鈥檚 history. - Student Appreciation Lunch – Tuesday, March 18 – 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This luncheon, which will include food, games, and activities, will celebrate GOCC students and their role in the college community. - Viking Day of Service – Wednesday, March 19 – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Glen Oaks faculty and staff will volunteer at local nonprofits to give back to St. Joseph County and demonstrate the college鈥檚 commitment to community service. Among the organizations benefiting from the initiative are:
- Affinity House (Pivotal) 鈥 Supporting individuals in addiction recovery.
- Keystone Place 鈥 Providing shelter and support for the homeless.
- Rooted of St. Joseph County – Supporting foster children and families.
- St. Joseph County Commission on Aging 鈥 Enhancing services for older adults.
- Three Rivers Area Mentoring (TRAM) 鈥 Offering mentorship programs for youth.
- St. Joseph County 4-H 鈥 Supporting educational programs for young leaders.
- St. Joseph County Grange Fair 鈥 Assisting with preparations for community events.
- United Way/WBET Food Drive at Walmart (Sturgis) 鈥 Collecting donations for the GOCC Food Pantry.
The inauguration ceremony on March 21 will feature distinguished speakers, honored guests, and a formal presentation of the presidential medallion symbolizing the authority and responsibility of the office.
鈥淎s we celebrate this momentous occasion, we look forward to the future of Glen Oaks under Dr. Newton鈥檚 leadership,鈥 said Bruce Gosling, GOCC Board of Trustees Chairperson. 鈥淗is vision for innovation, student success, and workforce alignment will further strengthen the college鈥檚 impact on the region.鈥
In addition to attending the public inauguration, community members are encouraged to support Glen Oaks students by contributing to the GOCC Foundation during a two-week fundraising drive beginning March 10. Donations help fund scholarships, enhance academic programs, and expand educational opportunities.
For more details about the inauguration and related events, visit /about-us/leadership/inauguration/
