Inauguration
The Inauguration of Brooke Barnett, 16th president of Rollins College
On April 18, 2026, Rollins College will inaugurate Brooke Barnett as its 16th president.
April is an auspicious time for Rollins, beginning with the College’s founding. On April 17, 1885, the Florida Congregational Association selected Winter Park to be the site of Florida’s first college. Rollins College was officially incorporated on April 28 of that year. It’s no wonder April has been a favorite month for inaugurations of recent Rollins presidents.
The Rollins community and friends are invited to join in upcoming April inauguration activities as the College celebrates its new president and another auspicious beginning.
Please return to this site for updates on inauguration events.
Inauguration Livestream
Join us live on Saturday, April 18, 2026, as Rollins College celebrates a historic milestone: the inauguration of Dr. Brooke Barnett as the institution’s 16th president.
Inauguration Celebration Activities
Celebrate the inauguration of Dr. Brooke Barnett as the 16th president of Rollins College with activities evoking Rollins’ guiding principles: excellence, innovation, and community.
Explore Celebration ActivitiesIntroducing President Barnett
“I was immediately drawn to the Rollins College mission to educate students for global citizenship and responsible leadership and to prepare them for meaningful lives and careers. Student learning, well-being, and graduate readiness are central to why I have spent my career in higher education. Engaging with students and working alongside faculty and staff to help students flourish brings me joy.”
Get to Know President Barnett
Learn more about Rollins’ 16th president.
