Abel A. Chávez, PhD, steps into history today as the 10th President of Our Lady of the Lake University. A native of Denver, Colo., Dr. Chávez is the first Latino to lead OLLU since it opened in 1896 as an academy for girls.

On Thursday, July 14, OLLU recognized a transition in leadership during a ceremony in Sacred Heart Chapel. Dr. Chávez received authority and responsibilities from Diane E. Melby, EdD, OLLU’s 9th President and now President emeritus.

A first-generation, first-in-family, son of immigrants and bilingual administrator and academic, Dr. Chávez is an integrative leader and learner. He has served in multiple roles in and beyond higher education. 

Last Thursday, Dr. Chávez thanked the OLLU community for the opportunity to lead. Afterward, he visited the Convent and attended a farewell reception for Dr. Melby in Chapel Auditorium. 

Dr. Chávez will take a consolidated tour of campus this morning. Marketing and Communications will post images on social media.