Last Thursday, Interim President Steven Bridges delivered a speech at the Beta Alpha Psi-sponsored Two Chapters for Life event in the Business and Engineering Center.

In his speech, Bridges shared his background, emphasized the importance of education and provided insight into campus business operations.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1989, Bridges returned to USI in 1995 to complete his MBA. Since then, he has worked his way through the ranks, serving as a staff accountant, bursar, vice president for finance and administration and now interim president of the university.

His story reflects a commitment to education and career development, extending to his three children, who pursued careers in banking, school administration and financial analysis.

Bridges was a first-generation college student whose family prioritized better opportunities for future generations.

“I have four grandchildren,” Bridges said. “I hope, generationally, we continue the college education path. They may choose their own path, but I think it’s important.”

Bridges compared the university’s operations to those of a small city, citing the bursar’s office, accounting offices, housing operations, maintenance facilities, and even the tunnels that connect university buildings, which he confirmed are “not a rumor.”

At the end of his speech, Bridges encouraged students to seize opportunities. Reflecting on his career, he spoke about his passion for fund accounting and related it to his personal decisions, urging students to take chances and explore different career paths.

Bridges assumed the role of interim president following the resignation of President Ronald Rochon in June 2024. He said he hopes to be confirmed as the next university president.