Quinnipiac University

October 16, 2025

Inauguration of President Hardin

President Marie Hardin inauguration graphic

October 16, 2025

Inauguration of President Hardin

Join us as we celebrate the inauguration of President Marie Hardin, our 10th president, with a series of engaging events in October. From community service and academic talks to a 5K run and Bobcat Weekend festivities, there's something for everyone to participate in.

Inauguration Ceremony and Reception

Thursday, October 16, 10 a.m.

Join us for the ceremony as we officially inaugurate President Marie Hardin as the 10th president of Quinnipiac. The event will include a procession, performances and remarks by notable speakers. Wear your Quinnipiac blue and gold!

Celebrate President Hardin at the post-ceremony reception and enjoy connecting with others in the Quinnipiac community.

Register for the Inauguration Ceremony

‘Voices of the Community’ Project

We invite you to participate in the "Voices of the Community" project at the reception to record your unique 30-second message welcoming President Hardin, what you love about Quinnipiac, and what your hopes are for the future.

A Month of Community & Celebration

We are in the process of finalizing all the exciting events that will coincide with the Inauguration. Below is an overview, with more details to be released at the end of the summer.

Sunday, October 12

9 a.m.
Sleeping Giant Hike

Hike the Giant with President Marie C. Hardin! 

Ready to mix fresh air, great views, and even better conversation? Join President Hardin for a fun and relaxed hike up the Sleeping Giant Tower Trail—a favorite among Quinnipiac students, alumni, and nature lovers alike.

Talk trails and Bobcat pride as you stroll the wide, winding path to the summit of Mount Carmel. Whether you're swapping stories about your time at Quinnipiac or just soaking in the scenery, this is your chance to connect in a whole new way.

Limited availability: RSVP early to secure your spot

 

Tuesday, October 14

6 a.m.
Bobcat Stride Morning Walk

Start your morning with a brisk walk as you connect with the Quinnipiac community and our Bobcat Stride walkers. Located on our North Haven Campus, this indoor path provides an opportunity to safely walk in a climate controlled, flat path.

Alternatively, you are invited to complete the outdoor path on the Mount Carmel Campus, which brings the walker by a variety of trees. Quinnipiac is proud to hold the Tree Campus designation through the Arbor Day Foundation.

Registration not required.

12:30 p.m.
Breaking Boundaries: Women in Sports & Media

This dynamic roundtable will examine the evolving role of women in sports and sports media, celebrating achievements, confronting challenges and envisioning future opportunities. Featuring distinguished alumni and industry leaders, the conversation will explore themes of inclusivity, innovation, imagination and leadership while highlighting the transformative impact of women across sports and sports media.

Register for Breaking Boundaries

 

Wednesday, October 15

10-11:30 a.m.
Faculty Talks on AI and Scholarship Exhibition

Join us for a day of exploration into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on higher education. The program features a dynamic panel discussion on "AI and Higher Education." 

All day, participate in a unique Research Relay — a poster scavenger hunt where each school/college will exhibit 2-5 posters in their respective buildings (with North Haven schools in the ABL library). Prizes await the first 75 university community members completing the relay by visiting all poster sites.

Throughout the day, visit the Arnold Bernhard Library for the Faculty Scholarship Exhibition including special posters on Quinnipiac faculty AI research.

Refreshments will be served immediately following the event.

Register for Faculty Talks on AI and Scholarship Exhibition

Friday-Saturday, October 17-18

Bobcat Weekend

Join us for all the exciting events being held during Bobcat Weekend! 

See more details and register for Bobcat Weekend

 

Saturday, October 18

9 a.m.
Roaring Start: 5K Run/Walk

Join us for the Quinnipiac University Roaring Start 5K and Running Club!

This fall, Quinnipiac invites you to make some strides toward great health with us! Whether you’re a runner, walker or couch potato, this event is all about community, wellness and harnessing the spirit of our Bobcat community.

In recognition of President Marie C. Hardin’s encouragement for all Bobcats to focus on their physical and mental health — as well as her passion for running — we will host the Roaring Start 5K Run/Walk for runners and walkers of all skill levels. The race is untimed and at no charge. The first 700 individuals who cross the finishing line will receive a commemorative medal. It is open to all students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members.

To help everyone get ready, we’re launching the Quinnipiac University Running Club on Saturday, September 6. Meeting every Saturday at 8 a.m. on the Farmington River Canal Trail entrance on Sherman Avenue across from the York Hill Campus, this no-pressure running and walking group is perfect for all levels. Each week features guest speakers and participants, offering encouragement, training tips and inspiration.

Can’t make it in person? Join us virtually on Strava by searching for the Quinnipiac University Running Club and log your miles with Bobcats near and far.

The 5K and Running Club are a true team effort, in partnership with QU Active, the Quinnipiac Running Club and our varsity cross-country teams. Together, we’re building a culture of movement, fun and connection leading up to race day.

Lace up, join the movement, and be part of this exciting new Quinnipiac tradition. Every step counts toward the finish line and toward a stronger, healthier Bobcat community.

Register for the 5K Run/Walk

4 p.m.
Men’s Ice Hockey versus Maine

As part of the Bobcat Weekend celebrations, join us for an exciting home matchup against the Maine Black Bears. We will introduce President Hardin on center ice as part of this event.

Throughout the Month of October: Community Service

Sports Equipment Drive

Faculty, staff and students are invited to donate their gently used sports equipment, which will be donated to youth sports leagues in our community.

Shoe Drive

Inspired by President Hardin's love of shoes, please contribute your used shoes/sneakers for donation. Collected shoes will be donated for redistribution and recycling.

Quinnipiac’s 10th President