By Kenya Godette
“Innovation is not the disruption of tradition; it is the protection of the future,” Old Dominion University President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., said to a standing-room-only crowd of students, faculty and staff at the second annual Forward-Focused event held in the Big Blue Room of Chartway Arena on February 26.
That belief framed the bold vision President Hemphill presented, outlining how the University will build upon its legacy, while preparing for what’s next.
“Our story has been filled with innovation and being first,” President Hemphill said as he shared some of the institution’s historic firsts.
He cited the Monarch Nation’s long-standing commitment to innovation that has been part of Old Dominion University’s story since the 1930s, from the construction of Alfred B. Rollins Jr. Hall in 1936 for $123,000 to the first bachelor’s degree programs in 1953 and pioneering for-credit television courses in 1958, when the University became the first higher education institution in Virginia to offer for-credit courses taught over open-circuit television. In Virginia, it was Old Dominion University that first realized the early role television played beyond entertainment and news.
In 1964, the University began offering master’s programs followed by doctoral programs in 1971. In 1979, the University established an interdisciplinary doctoral program in biomedical sciences with Eastern Virginia Medical School — just six years after their founding.
The 1990s were equally marked by momentum with the establishment of the Lambert’s Point Summer Program in 1992; the launch of TELETECHNET, pioneering the nation’s first and one of the largest distance learning initiatives, in 1994; and the signing of a formal partnership with NATO’s Atlantic headquarters to support research opportunities for faculty in 1995. In 1996, sailors aboard the USS George Washington were the first to take live, interactive MBA courses at Old Dominion University through the “Ships at Sea” Program.
“These accomplishments and milestones would not have been possible without a united community of learners, scholars, researchers and administrators,” President Hemphill said.
He added that the University will continue strengthening its infrastructure and embracing new technologies to enhance the experience for students, faculty and staff.
“We are committed to positioning Old Dominion University at the forefront of national innovation — we have been here before, and we are here again in the spotlight.”
Reflecting on his early days at the University, President Hemphill said innovation has always been central to his vision.
“When I arrived at Old Dominion University, I was guided by a belief that innovation must become a way of life — not as a mere slogan or aspiration, but as a responsibility to our students, the Commonwealth and future generations,” he said.
And, that responsibility continues today. As higher education faces declining demographics, rising operational costs and technological disruption, the University is responding through data-informed decisions that support growth and expand student opportunity.
While institutions across the country reduce academic programs, services and people, Old Dominion University is investing. The University is raising record amounts in research and development funding with an increase of nearly $80 million in only four years, and philanthropic support that has grown by more than $58 million in just three years. Student retention has increased by 7% over the last five years, and the University is trailblazing a path to expand flexible learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom.
“Together, we navigate this transformative journey with a healthy dose of reality and a firm sense of purpose,” said President Hemphill. “The world is changing and so are we. Why? Because of our students.”
Throughout his address, President Hemphill positioned Forward-Focused Digital Transformation as the newest chapter in the University’s nearly 100-year history — an institutional imperative to strengthen academics, expand access and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape. With a strong foundation in place and momentum surging, Old Dominion University is shaping the future, not waiting for it.
“We are on the cusp of distinction and greatness — distinction and greatness that can only be realized due to the strong foundation laid by those before us and the clear vision of those entrusted with the heart and soul of our beloved institution,” President Hemphill said.
In his closing remarks, President Hemphill emphasized the University’s trajectory for years to come, “This is Old Dominion University’s moment. Our moment to define, lead, prove and shine.”