Inauguration of Linfield University's 21st President
Mark Blegen
Connecting Learning, Life and Community
Since his arrival at Linfield on July 1, 2025, President Mark Blegen has fully embraced Linfield’s mission: connecting learning, life and community. In fact, he could think of no better theme for his inauguration. It’s what has guided Linfield since 2002, and will continue to do so.
Please join us for this special moment in Linfield’s history, as we celebrate and reaffirm our mission, and conduct the formal installation of Mark Blegen as the 21st president of Linfield University.
INVESTITURE CEREMONY
Friday, May 8, 2026
3 p.m.
Ted Wilson Gymnasium
McMinnville, Oregon
Be part of the celebration
Inauguration Week schedule of events
Inauguration Week schedule of events
Join us on the McMinnville and Portland campus for a series of events celebrating "Learning, Life and Community." All are free and open to the public.
Visitor information
Visitor information
Information on lodging and transportation to the McMinnville and Portland campuses.
RSVP as a delegate
RSVP as a delegate
Attending as a representative of another institution of higher education or other entity? Please complete the Delegate Response Form.
Get to know President Blegen
Mark Blegen is an experienced academic leader, educator and advocate for the liberal arts with a career spanning more than two decades in higher education.
Read President Blegen's bioPresident Blegen in the news
Linfield’s Inauguration Week connects campuses, communities and purpose
Linfield News
Linfield’s Inauguration Week connects campuses, communities and purpose
On May 8, Linfield University will mark one of those moments as it formally installs its 21st president, Mark Blegen. To celebrate the occasion, Linfield hosts a series of events to bring together students, employees, alumni and community members.
The Blegen era begins at Linfield University
Linfield News
The Blegen era begins at Linfield University
July 1, 2025 - Mark Blegen officially begins his tenure as Linfield University’s 21st president, bringing decades of experience in academic leadership and a deep commitment to student success.
Mark Blegen begins ‘Linfield experience’
News-Register
Mark Blegen begins ‘Linfield experience’
Aug. 8, 2025 - In the five weeks since he moved into the president’s office at Linfield University, Mark Blegen said he has talked about the school with numerous students, alumni, donors and employees.