Dr. Chávez Visits Regan Hall for Lunch

Abel A. Chávez, PhD, stepped into history yesterday as the 10th President of Our Lady of the Lake University. As part of his campus tour, Dr. Chávez visited Regan Hall and had lunch with Sr. Pearl Ceasar, Superior General, and the Sisters of Divine Providence.

Dr. Chávez’ visit reaffirms the University’s unwavering dedication to the covenant of mutual commitment between the University and the Sisters. The Sisters founded Our Lady of the Lake in 1895 on the foundation of faith, wisdom and trust in Providence. Today, OLLU is a sponsored ministry of the Congregation and members of the Congregation are on the University Board.

On Thursday, July 14, OLLU recognized a transition in leadership during a ceremony in Sacred Heart Chapel. Dr. Chávez received authority and responsibilities from Diane E. Melby, EdD, OLLU’s 9th President and now President Emeritus.  Dr. Chávez thanked the Sisters and the OLLU community for the opportunity to lead. Afterward, he visited the Convent and attended a farewell reception for Dr. Melby in Chapel Auditorium.

A first-generation, first in family, son of immigrants, and bilingual administrator and academic, Dr. Chávez is an integrative leader and learner. He has served in multiple roles in and beyond higher education, allowing him holistic institutional oversight and understanding of the university operation. He has a track record of, and is committed to, conceiving, building, enhancing, and positioning programs in relevant fields, that enhance quality, access, affordability, and completion, while serving the needs of students, families, economies, and campus. 

Welcome Dr. Chávez!