President's Message

Dear Alumni and Friends,

It’s no secret that MSOE graduates are in high demand, no matter the state of the economy. The hands-on educational experiences we provide our students prepares them to solve the complex challenges of today and tomorrow. Our reputation of preparing leaders is well known in industry. When I meet with corporate partners and industry representatives, I consistently hear stories about the value our graduates are delivering to their organizations—and they want to hire more of our students and alumni for internships and full-time positions.

I attribute this to the MSOE Mindset. We are committed to helping students develop the MSOE Mindset, which identifies graduates as leaders of character; responsible professionals; passionate learners; and value creators. The mindset is an assimilation of the Servant-Leader Mindset, the Entrepreneurial Mindset, and our mission, vision, values and commitments. The mindset was inspired by MSOE Regent Robert Kern. He led by example and embodied all these attributes. Dr. Kern passed away in November and while we are deeply saddened by this, we are proud to carry on his legacy. Read more about Dr. Kern and the impact he has made on page 4.

Our work is being recognized in many ways. In October I was proud to represent MSOE along with Dr. DeAnna Leitzke ’98, ’08 at the Servant Leadership Hall of Fame induction ceremony at Seton Hall University. There, the Robert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership included MSOE in their inaugural class of inductees as a Servant-Led Organization. It was an honor to be inducted to this hall of fame along with Dr. Richard Pieper Sr., MSOE Corporation member, who was recognized for his commitment to placing a primary focus on the well-being of others. MSOE’s servant leadership efforts are made possible thanks to the Suzanne and Richard Pieper Family Foundation.

I am proud to be a part of this extraordinary university surrounded by bright minds and an inspirational community. I wish you all a happy and relaxing holiday season.

Sincerely,

JOHN Y. WALZ, Ph.D. President

Progress is underway on Raiders Field, the new home of MSOE’s softball team. Located on the site of the old “grass athletic field,” it is on track to open in spring. In addition to the upgraded space, students will still be able to use and enjoy the sand volleyball court, Frisbee golf holes, walking paths and green space. Raiders Field is being funded by a gift from Dr. Kathleen Ruehlow ’72, as well as gifts from Matthew ’99 and Jodi ’98 Burow, and Fiduciary Management Inc.