FREMONT, Neb. (AP) — University of Nebraska’s new president is touring 20 communities in six days as he begins his tenure.

Hank Bounds began his role as the university’s seventh president this week. Bounds is speaking to local communities and residents about his background and his goals for the university.

Bounds spoke to about 35 residents in Fremont Sunday about how he will focus on ensuring access and affordability to education for Nebraskans. He also said that he will spend time speaking with high school students about how earning a degree will earn them more money over a lifetime.

The new president also talked about the need to fill jobs that do not exist now, but will in the future.