Iona College today announced the appointment of the school's eighth President.

Dr. Joseph E. Nyre will become the College's first lay president, succeeding Brother James Liguori who is completed his 17th year in the position.

Nyre is currently President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hope Institute for Children and Families, headquartered in Springfield, Illinois, an organization that advances public policy, conducts research, links institutions of higher education and offers healthcare and educational services.

Chairman of Iona's Board of Legal Trustees, James Hynes noted that Dr. Nyre was selected from over 60 candidates. "We are very excited to be able to welcome Dr. Nyre. Dr. Nyre brings a unique background and special skill set to the position of president that we believe can take Iona to national prominence," said Hynes.

According to Iona College officials, Dr. Nyre transformed The Hope Institute for Children and Families into a nationally recognized institute serving 29,000 people annually and training more than 30,000 clinicians, physicians and teachers since 2003. 

In his career, Nyre has practiced as a psychologist in academic, clinical and private practice settings. He has also served in a faculty capacity at the University of Kansas, Baylor University, Harvard Medical School, the University of Chicago and Simmons College. 

Brother Liguori steps down on May 31.