Just a week into his tenure as Rutgers University’s 22nd president, William F. Tate IV arrived in South Jersey at Rutgers University-Camden for his first campus visit with leadership, faculty, staff, and students. Throughout a day of introductory activities and a comprehensive campus tour, Chancellor Antonio D. Tillis offered Tate a personal look at Rutgers-Camden’s academic offerings, student experience, athletic programs, and campus life.
Tate joined Rutgers after a successful presidency at Louisiana State University, where he oversaw campuses that serve more than 55,000 students. He holds a doctoral degree in mathematics education and is a renowned expert in sociology and public policy.
Stops on the tour included the site of the university’s ongoing Cooper Street Gateway construction project, which is combining historic preservation and state-of-the-art innovations to bring a new academic and community hub to the Rutgers-Camden campus. He visited the university’s various athletic and fitness facilities, gazed out at the backdrop of the Ben Franklin Bridge over the Camden Athletic Complex, and stepped onto the hardwood where the Scarlet Raptors men’s and women’s basketball teams compete. Time spent in the Raptor’s Nest food pantry underscored Rutgers-Camden’s commitment to a holistic student experience and building a supportive community.
Following his exploration of campus, Tate stopped by the Office of the Chancellor for a student roundtable focused on the Rutgers-Camden experience. A group of undergraduate and graduate students offered their perspectives on academic life and community engagement opportunities while sharing the aspirations they hope to reach through their education.
The visit afforded Tate the chance to become part of the Rutgers-Camden community while witnessing the school pride, community spirit, and commitment to inclusive access that make the university an anchor institution within Camden and across the Delaware Valley.
“I look forward to President Tate’s leadership,” Tillis said. “He is a visionary leader whose career has been defined by academic excellence and a deep commitment to public service.”
Learn more about Rutgers University-Camden and how it drives innovation across the region and beyond, while providing incredible opportunities for students to learn by doing.
