Golden State Today

The inauguration of Rich Lyons as the new Chancellor of UC Berkeley took place on Friday afternoon at Zellerbach Hall. Although the event was meant to honor Lyons, who assumed his role on July 1, he emphasized that the occasion was a celebration of the university's collective past, present, and future.

Lyons stated, "I see this not as a personal ceremony, but as a communal one, an inauguration of another era of excellence for our university." He referred to UC Berkeley as "the people's university," underscoring its foundation by and for the community at large.

Lyons was appointed by the UC Regents in April to succeed former Chancellor Carol Christ. Since then, he has been focused on enhancing the university's financial health, diversity initiatives, and employee morale. The formal swearing-in grants him full authority to perform all duties associated with his position.

The ceremony included traditional elements such as speeches and the passing of the Chancellor’s Medal but also featured musical performances by the Cal Jazz Choir and other groups. Notably absent from his performance repertoire was Lyons' guitar playing; however, music remained central to the celebration.

Janet Reilly, chair of the UC Board of Regents, commended Lyons for his dedication to entrepreneurship and innovation at Berkeley. She expressed confidence in his leadership abilities: “You embody the spirit of Berkeley,” she said.

Amani Nuru-Jeter from Berkeley’s Academic Senate described her initial curiosity about Lyons' appointment but noted positive feedback about his leadership qualities. She assured him of collective support: “Rich, you are not in this alone,” she remarked.

In addressing broader societal issues during his speech, Lyons highlighted concerns over societal polarization and skepticism towards science. He stressed the importance of free speech and academic freedom on campus amidst these challenges.

Lyons concluded with optimism about UC Berkeley's potential: "If I know nothing else," he said confidently, "there is nothing — nothing — that is beyond the reach of our university."