The selection of a new president elicited reactions from the La Salle community and the wider world. La Salle’s News Bureau (later University Communications) issued press releases to shape public opinion and provide background on these previously unknown La Salle leaders. Political and educational leaders from around the state, and even around the country, sent their congratulations to the new presidents.

Inaugurations were open to the entire La Salle community, in addition to selected outside guests. Offices were closed and classes were cancelled so that faculty, students, and staff could attend the celebrations. Special invitations and tickets were issued to prominent attendees, and public invitations were issued to the campus.

La Salle students took a keen interest in their new University presidents. They dedicated the 1993 Explorer to outgoing President Brother Patrick Ellis and incoming President Brother Joseph Burke, declaring that students are “looking forward to an exciting and prosperous future.” Collegian staff interviewed Brother Joseph about his plans for La Salle and shared students’ opinions on priorities for the new President. Brother Michael McGinniss acknowledged student support for his inauguration, noting that over 1,000 students had attended the ceremony.