Forward together: Bradley inaugurated as UofL’s 20th President

Gerry Bradley isn't new to the University of Louisville - he's been helping shape its story for nearly a decade. From his start as dean of the School of Dentistry in 2016 to his role as provost, Bradley's leadership has strengthened the university's foundation and its reach across the Commonwealth.

On Oct. 10, the university celebrated a new era as Bradley was inaugurated as its 20th president. Filled with music, tradition and Cardinal pride, the ceremony at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium was livestreamed to a global audience, marking a historic milestone in UofL's 227-year story.

Now at the helm of a $1.6 billion university and its $2.5 billion UofL Health system, Bradley steps into his role with both experience and vision, ready to guide the university into its next chapter.

"As we look forward, we are mindful of the responsibility placed upon us. Our task is not simply to preserve this legacy but to propel it boldly into the future," said Bradley. "Together we will ensure that the University of Louisville takes its rightful place among the great public universities of our nation."

Bradley's family, including his wife Kim and five sons, attended the ceremony alongside a platform party of distinguished guests. Among those present were Senator Mitch McConnell, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and Lori Stewart Gonzalez, previous provost and interim president.

"Gerry isn't just making decisions behind the desk in the office, he's making it a priority to get out in the community," said McConnell, who graduated from UofL in 1964 and established the McConnell Center on campus in 1991. "He puts students first and understands keenly that UofL is part of the fabric of our community."

Greenberg also praised Bradley for his commitment to progress and working together.

"The success of UofL is so important to the success of our city. When UofL offers a world-class education, it keeps young and bright people - our future leaders - right here in Louisville," said Greenberg.

Coleman, who is a '08 alumna, congratulated Bradley on behalf of Team Kentucky and Gov. Andy Beshear and shared that she was honored to speak at the institution that cultivated her values.

"Ceremonies like this demonstrate the respect we have for institutions of higher learning, the unique impact an educational experience has on each of us and the responsibility that we all share to steward this university for the next generation," said Coleman. "Now more than ever, our world needs creative and thoughtful leaders who can build bridges of understanding and can lead through tough times with empathy and compassion."

Momentum

The inauguration comes at a time of incredible momentum for the university. This fall, UofL celebrated a historic milestone as enrollment topped 25,000 students for the first time. UofL also set a record with an 84.1% fall-to-fall retention rate, proving that students are not only choosing Louisville, but thriving here.

During his speech, Bradley reminded the audience, "these are not just numbers, they are lives and families that have been transformed by higher education."

The momentum doesn't stop there. UofL also earned its highest ranking ever in the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges list.

Additionally, the university continues to distinguish itself as a top-tier Research 1(R1) institution, earning hundreds of millions annually in competitive research funding and addressing challenges in health, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.

UofL is also one of only 11 universities nationwide to earn the R1, Opportunity College & University in Student Access and Carnegie Community Engaged classifications. These designations underscore the university's dual role as a powerhouse of innovation and a deeply rooted community partner.

Forward Together

Earlier this month, Bradley shared his fiscal year 2026 goals with the Board of Trustees. With the board's approval, he will focus on priorities which align with the pillars of our 2026-2030 Strategic Plan - learn, work, discover and connect.

"We believe we can become national leaders in these areas, and we have the momentum to do it now," said Bradley.

With three campuses, 12 schools and colleges, over 25,000 students, 170,000 alumni and a mission that blends teaching, research, health care and service, UofL remains committed to shaping Kentucky's future while driving progress on a national and global scale.

The inauguration marked a celebration of Cardinal pride, purpose and progress - proof that the UofL is moving forward together, and the best is yet to come.

Learn more about Bradley in UofL News. View photos from the inauguration on Flickr and watch the inauguration ceremony on YouTube. Stay up-to-date with President Bradley on Instagram and LinkedIn.