Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) congratulated Dr. Kim Schatzel on her inauguration as the 19th President of the University of Louisville. McConnell, an alumnus of UofL, shared his admiration for the university and his excitement for the future under President Schatzel's leadership.

"Today, I join my alma mater, the University of Louisville, in celebrating the inauguration of its new President, Dr. Kim Schatzel," said McConnell. "As any alum will tell you, UofL is a special place. For me, it was the first place in Kentucky where I felt at home."

McConnell reminisced about his time at UofL, highlighting the impact the university had on his personal and public life. "As a young man, it’s where I met the first professor who challenged me to think for myself, where I tested my talents in my first art class, and where I was lucky enough to take part in UofL’s congressional internship program – which thankfully fared far better than my artistic pursuits," he shared.

The UofL community holds a special place in McConnell's life to this day. "These days, UofL continues to be an important part of my life, whether I’m tailgating football games with friends, advocating on behalf of the university in Washington, or observing the success of the McConnell Center scholars," he said.

McConnell expressed his hopes for President Schatzel as she assumes her new role. "I hope she too will find the immense opportunity and access afforded to myself and every UofL student, staff, faculty, and alum who walks its campus," he said.

Highlighting UofL's rich history of visionary leaders, McConnell proudly welcomed President Schatzel to this esteemed group. He praised her wealth of experience in both academics and business, noting her successful career in corporate America before transitioning to academia as the President of Towson University.

McConnell emphasized the importance of President Schatzel's leadership for the university and the broader community. "These are high priorities for our university as well, and I look forward to partnering with her to bring similar success to UofL and the broader community," he said.

Recognizing the significance of UofL on a national scale, McConnell highlighted the university's contributions in various fields. "The city of Louisville, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and the entire nation rely on the University of Louisville for its research and innovations in medicine, engineering, agriculture, the arts, and so much more," he stated.

Leading a major metropolitan university like UofL is undoubtedly a challenging task, but McConnell expressed his confidence in President Schatzel. "I think I speak for the entire Louisville community when I say, President Schatzel, keep up the great work," he said. "From one Cardinal to another, I wish her the best of luck and congratulations on this momentous day!"

For more information on the University of Louisville and President Kim Schatzel, please visit https://louisville.edu.