»Presidential Inauguration
The Inauguration of Matthew J. Parlow as Chapman University's Fourteenth President welcomed guests and friends from around the globe. To commemorate this milestone, Chapman hosted various events from October 3-14, 2025, that offered opportunities to celebrate together, engage with the university and its new president and learn more about the exciting future ahead for Chapman.
Below you can watch a recap video and read about all Chapman's inauguration events. Learn more about President Parlow and his vision for Chapman at chapman.edu/president.
Chapman Inauguration News
Inauguration Week Events
Friday, October 3 – Saturday, October 4
Homecoming Weekend
We celebrated two Panther-packed days of festivities while connecting with faculty, our new president, and fellow students and classmates.
Friday, October 3
An Evening for Students with Keegan-Michael Key
Homecoming weekend kicked off with an appearance by the actor and comedian, who chatted with students and President Parlow, sharing life lessons as a part of his journey.
Saturday, October 4
Homecoming Alumni Social
Chapman alumni reconnected with fellow Panthers while enjoying music, food, and refreshments, and heard special remarks from President Matt Parlow and Alumni Association President Michelle Philo as we celebrated our alumni community. The event featured special celebrations for milestone reunion classes, clubs, and organizations.
Monday, October 6
A Breakfast with Community Leaders
At a breakfast with community leaders, President Matt Parlow joined elected officials, trustees, local dignitaries, and community members to celebrate his inauguration as Chapman University’s 14th President.
An Evening with Nadia Murad in Conversation with Chapman Dean Jennifer Keene
The activist and author shared her story of survival, healing and the importance of global advocacy.
Tuesday, October 7
There will be no inauguration events held on October 7.
Wednesday, October 8
Panel Discussion on Understanding and Addressing the Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences with a Keynote from California Surgeon General Dr. Diana Ramos
Leading researchers and practitioners explored the lifelong effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), a critical issue in childhood health and development. The session was head
Thursday, October 9
Chapman Faculty Mixer
At this social, faculty mingled with each other and President Matt Parlow.
Erwin Chemerinsky in Dialogue with Chapman Professor Vikki Katz on Free Speech and Civil Discourse
A discussion with leading scholars underscored the university’s commitment to open, respectful exchange.
Friday, October 10
Interfaith Service
Interfaith leaders from across the region gathered to continue the Chapman tradition of hosting a religious service to mark the beginning of a new presidency.
All-Campus and Community Picnic
Members of the Chapman family and local community gathered to celebrate the inauguration together over lunch, refreshments, and Chapman giveaways.
Investiture Ceremony
In October 2025, our community and university delegates from across the nation and world gathered for the momentous inauguration of President Parlow on Chapman’s Orange, California campus.
Tuesday, October 14
Palmer Luckey in Conversation with President Matt Parlow on Leadership in Business
Inventor, innovator, and entrepreneur Palmer Luckey is best known for founding Oculus
VR and designing the Oculus Rift virtual reality head-mounted display.