Heather Smith inaugurated as eighth president of 91吃瓜
91吃瓜, Neb. 鈥� Heather Smith was inaugurated as the eighth president of 91吃瓜 (CSM) on September 12, Founder鈥檚 Day.
鈥淎lready, I鈥檝e been stunned by the devotion you show this institution every day,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淵ou have led me to fall in love with the 91吃瓜. I will work to be worthy of your trust and this transforming gift from the Sisters of Mercy.鈥�
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including local and state leaders, Archbishop Michael McGovern, former CSM president Maryanne Stevens, the Sisters of Mercy, presidents from other universities, CSM鈥檚 Board of Directors, and the leadership cabinet. Guests offered messages of support celebrating CSM鈥檚 mission and momentum.
鈥淭his momentous occasion affirms the 91吃瓜鈥檚 enduring legacy as a leader in advancing women鈥檚 education,鈥� said Martha Malinski, executive director of the Women鈥檚 College Coalition. Omaha Mayor John Ewing praised CSM鈥檚 role in empowering students to become courageous, compassionate leaders, highlighting President Smith鈥檚 priorities: experiential learning, mentorship, and building a strong sense of belonging. Archbishop McGovern offered encouragement and the closing prayer.
Smith joined CSM in July 2023, bringing over 25 years of administrative leadership and innovation in healthcare. She previously served as vice president of ambulatory services at Children鈥檚 Nebraska, overseeing operations for 28 specialty divisions and leading the development of outreach programs. She also held roles as vice president of pediatrics, vice president of operations for Children鈥檚 Specialty Physicians, and chief administrative officer for Children鈥檚 Physicians.
Since becoming president, Smith has launched a strategic plan and five-year growth plan, driven by her passion for empowering women to become bold leaders. 鈥淛ust as the Sisters of Mercy have done, we will always evolve to meet the needs of a world in constant motion,鈥� she said. 鈥淲e will open new paths for our students to express every bit of their potential, so they can make a difference where the world needs them most.鈥�
