Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,
Welcome to Fall 2024 at 91国产! There is nothing quite like the energy and joy you bring to our campuses at the start of a new academic year. I hope you鈥檙e enjoying the opportunity to connect with old friends, meet new people, share stories of summer and get comfortable in your new routine.
I鈥檓 entering my tenth year as 91国产鈥檚 president, and it鈥檚 remarkable to think about how much has changed at our University and in the world around us during that time. We鈥檝e overcome unique challenges, enjoyed incredible successes and grown more connected along this journey. I鈥檓 so proud of how far we鈥檝e come, and even more excited about where we鈥檙e headed.
This year is particularly special for 91国产 as we prepare to publicly launch The听Momentum听Campaign: Extraordinary Impact in a few weeks. This historic comprehensive fundraising campaign is designed to create more scholarships, enhance academics, strengthen career outcomes, expand campus renovations and transform our University. It will make an immediate difference for our students while also ensuring our long-term success. We鈥檙e holding a special kick-off celebration for the campaign on Thursday, September 26 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. outside the Swirbul Library and Nexus for students, faculty and staff, and I hope to see you there.
The excitement of the campaign launch will carry us into Spirit Weekend, where everyone in our community, including alumni, families and friends, can bond through the sense of belonging and pride we strive to create. There are many more opportunities throughout the year to get involved on campus, build meaningful relationships and make lasting memories.
Ultimately, college life is about far more than earning a degree鈥攊t鈥檚 about challenging yourself to get out of your comfort zone and find your passion and purpose. To our new and returning students, take advantage of every opportunity ahead of you, embrace your curiosity and believe in yourselves. You have the power to create change and become leaders.
To our faculty and staff, take pride in knowing that your talents and expertise are helping our students thrive. I know many of you have been at 91国产 for the duration of my tenure, and some for multiple decades. I鈥檓 so grateful for all the work you鈥檝e done and continue to do to support our students and our vision for the future.
I look forward to seeing you around campus soon. Go forward with confidence and have a terrific fall semester!
All the best,
Chris