OBSERVER Newsroom
Sacramento State President Dr. Luke Wood stopped by Saint Paul Church on Dec. 10 to share in the worship services and to meet with Pastor Kenneth R. Reece and Sac State alumni. Pastor Reece extended a heartfelt Saint Paul welcome.
“It is an inspiring moment when a leader of such distinction joins us in worship,” he said. “As we celebrate education and progress, we recognize the significance of seeing one of our own excel and lead in the academic realm. President Luke stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience and brilliance within the African American community. I pray this visit strengthens the bonds between our church and institutions of learning, fostering a legacy of achievement and empowerment for generations to come.”
Dr. Wood attended as part of his goal to educate and raise awareness of Sac State as an anchor institution in the region and to build community pride in the university.
“I’m so grateful to have shared in fellowship at Saint Paul, one of the most respected churches in Sacramento,” Dr. Wood said. “Pastor Reece’s message was powerful and enlightening. I was excited to see so many alumni in the room and look forward to visiting again in the future.”
Dr. Colette Harris-Mathews, a longtime member of Saint Paul and a Sac State graduate, was excited to greet and talk with Dr. Wood.
“It is essential that Dr. Wood create partnerships with the Sacramento faith-based community. Many of our congregants are alumni or currently attend Sac State,” she said. “Saint Paul is committed to educational achievement and enjoyed having Dr. Wood and his entire family worship with us. We are praying for his success at Sac State and our students’ academic achievements.”
Dr. Wood, 41, was named the university’s ninth president May 24 and began his tenure July 16. He is Sac State’s second African American president, following James Bond, who led the university from 1972-1978.