From Vision to Action: Dr. William J. Bisset Shares the Future of Lourdes University.

In this episode of Taylor Community Connection, we sit down with Dr. William J. Bisset, the 12th President of Lourdes University, to talk about his vision for higher education and the future of Lourdes. Dr. Bisset officially began his term on June 6, 2023, and was inaugurated on October 28, 2023. He brings more than thirty years of leadership experience in higher education, holding a PhD in Higher Education Leadership, Management, and Policy from Seton Hall University, an M.Ed. from UMass Lowell, and a B.A. in Criminal Justice from Saint Anselm College.

Before leading Lourdes, Dr. Bisset served as Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Marymount University from 2020 to 2023, and for over two decades as Vice President for Enrollment Management at Manhattan College. He is known for expanding applicant pools, improving student diversity, and upholding mission-centered values.

Since taking the helm at Lourdes, Dr. Bisset has focused on strengthening enrollment, expanding academic offerings, and building collaborative partnerships with institutions like Owens Community College, Davis University, and the Maritime Academy of Toledo. Under his leadership, Lourdes has launched new majors such as Environmental Studies, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Supply Chain Management, as well as minors in AI Literacy and Diversity Studies.

Community engagement is at the heart of his presidency. Dr. Bisset is committed to increasing Lourdes University’s regional presence, viewing it as a well-kept secret in Northwest Ohio, and he aims to elevate its profile through mission-driven programs and outreach. Guided by Franciscan values, he emphasizes compassion, collaboration, and the Franciscan motto “Peace and all Good” in every aspect of campus life.

Watch the full conversation to learn how Dr. Bisset is blending strategic innovation with mission integrity to create a transformative educational experience for Lourdes students and the greater community.

Watch Dr. William J. Bisset interview now!