Southeast Missouri State University will celebrate the inauguration of Dr. Brad Hodson on October 17.

Dr. Hodson is the University’s 19th president. The ceremony will mark the start of a new era at SEMO and will be a highlight of Homecoming week events showcasing the University’s academic excellence, community spirit, alumni impact, Redhawk pride, and vision for the future. All alumni, students, faculty, staff, and the greater Southeast Missouri community are welcome to attend this historic event.

Dr. Hodson’s inauguration will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 17, at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau. A community reception will follow.

Inauguration Week Highlights Open to the Public:

Thursday, Oct. 16 – Academic Showcase – 1-5 p.m. Alumni and community are invited to step back into classrooms, labs, and studios to see how SEMO is preparing the next generation of educators, business leaders, scientists, healthcare professionals, and artists with hands-on experiences as well as alumni panel discussions across SEMO’s five colleges. Visitors can explore everything from cyber security and finance labs to theatre rehearsals, nursing simulations, and the world-renowned Center for Faulkner Studies. The Showcase culminates with a reception bringing all audiences together for a celebration of SEMO’s academic programs and the careers they launch.

Friday, Oct. 17 – Fearless Fest Block Party & Inauguration The day begins with Fearless Fest, a campus block party on Normal Street featuring food trucks, games, and giveaways from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. At 2 p.m., the community is invited to the Show Me Center for the formal Presidential Inauguration Ceremony to install Dr. Hodson as SEMO’s 19th president, followed by a community reception.

Saturday, Oct. 18 – Homecoming Traditions Homecoming traditions round out the weekend on Saturday with the Alumni Breakfast at 8 a.m., the Homecoming Parade at 9:30 a.m., Alumni Tailgate at 11, and the Redhawks football game against Eastern Illinois at 2 p.m.

For a complete schedule of events and travel information, visit semo.edu/homecoming.