FranU Celebrates the Inauguration of President Dr. David M. Bellar

On March 26, 2026, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University celebrated a historic milestone, inaugurating Dr. David M. Bellar as its fifth president at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in downtown Baton Rouge.

The day brought together faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members for a celebration to remember. It began in prayer with an Inaugural mass, followed by a luncheon before the community gathered once more in the cathedral for the formal ceremony that afternoon. The celebration concluded that evening with a reception at the Capitol Park Museum.

During the ceremony, several prominent voices reflected on Dr. Bellar’s leadership and the future of FranU. Remarks were delivered by Deborah Duvic, regional director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs for Gov. Jeff Landry; Dr. Kim Hunter Reed, commissioner of higher education for the Louisiana Board of Regents; Sid Edwards, mayor-president of Baton Rouge; Dr. Eric A. Turner, president and CEO of the Louisiana Association of Independent Colleges and Universities; Most Rev. Michael B. Duca, bishop of the Diocese of Baton Rouge; and Sister Martha Ann Abshire, FMOL, MS.

University and health system leadership also took part, including Charles L. Spicer Jr., president of FMOL Health; Daniel A. Gardiner, chair of the FranU Board of Trustees; and Dr. Tina S. Holland, president emeritus of FranU. The ceremony also featured voices from across the FranU community, including Morgan L. Anacker, alumna; Dr. Amit Mitra, Faculty Senate president; Aubry Turney, M.Ed., director of academic support services; and Benjamin Mayer, Student Government Association president.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Bellar acknowledged the legacy he steps into and the responsibility that comes with it.

As we gather today, it is important to acknowledge a fundamental truth: no leader ever begins with a blank page,” Dr. Bellar said. “We inherit an institution shaped by courage, sacrifice and faithfulness. That reality calls for humility.”

Looking ahead, he outlined a vision grounded in Franciscan values and intentional growth.

As we look ahead, this Franciscan foundation shapes how we think about growth,” Dr. Bellar stated. “Our path forward is not growth for growth’s sake. It is purposeful growth—aligned with the needs of the communities we serve and faithful to our mission.”

Dr. Bellar also emphasized the long-term impact of the University’s purpose.

Our commitment is not only to the students we serve today, but to the generations who will follow,” he said. “We are forming leaders not just for their first job, but for lives of service, ethical responsibility and faithful leadership.”

The inauguration ceremony was the culmination of a weeklong celebration across campus.

The week began with a President’s Partnership Break and a Franciscan Prayer of Service, setting the tone for the rest of the week. Students, faculty and staff gathered outside St. Francis Hall for “Bellar Bingo, Bites and Blooms,” a lighthearted event featuring musical bingo with the president’s favorite songs, bouquet-making and a shared meal.

FranU also hosted its annual Hall of Distinction, recognizing alumni for their professional accomplishments and impact in their fields. Additional events included a Leadership Reception and a Day of Service on campus, where the campus community came together to serve and spend time in fellowship.