At Convocation 2025, HIU's 192nd Year Begins with a New President

Hartford International University opened its 192nd academic year by welcoming a new president, Dr. Sherry L. Turner, who began her tenure on July 1. President Turner is HIU's 12th president and the first African American woman to lead the institution.

President Turner was introduced by Dr. David D. Grafton, Professor of Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim Relations. 

In his introduction, Dr. Grafton noted that, in addition to being president, Dr. Turner will be Professor of Psychology and Practice at HIU, giving her a unique perspective. She also has many years of experience in leadership positions at institutions of higher education, which are facing stiff challenges at the moment.

"Dr. Turner was built for a time such as this," he said.

In her address, President Turner welcomed students, staff, faculty, alums, Trustees, Ambassadors, and others gathered in the Meeting Room as well as those watching a livestream.

She spoke about the need for HIU's leadership in healing divides and encouraging dialogue across difference.

"HIU has a special calling and a special gift to offer," she said. "If ever there was a time when the world needs HIU, it is now."

In the 100-plus conversations President Turner has had with community members since becoming president on July 1, she said one word has surfaced over and over again: transformation.

As a developmental psychologist, she studies how individuals grow and develop across their lives, and she sees how those connected with HIU have been transformed.

"I invite you to embrace the transformation," she said, no matter how difficult or uncomfortable it may sometimes be.

After her address, President Turner officially proclaimed the start of the 2025-26 academic year.

The Convocation program included an opening prayer by Imam Dr. Bilal W. Ansari, a welcome from Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Deena Grant, and closing prayer from Dr. Allison Norton. Student Jared Adams led a hymn based on words adapted from the poet Rumi.

Two students who participated in the 2024-25 MA in International Peacebuilding program, Hina Khan and Hannah Belsky, also gave a talk about their experience together and the bonds they formed while at HIU.

Hina, who is Muslim, and Hannah, who is Jewish, found "hidden beauty" in the shared roots of their names in Arabic and Hebrew. 

Hannah ended the talk this way: "If you remember one thing, it’s this: seek the kind of friendships that challenge you, expand you, and remind you that faith — whatever it looks like — is always more spacious and meaningful when shared."