A
MESSAGE
FROM THE
PRESIDENT G
RATEFUL: So reads the license plate on one of my friend’s cars-—a reminder each day that there is much for which to be thankful. As the new president here at Westminster, I’m deeply aware of that truth. I am grateful for the honor of serving as Westminster’s 15th President, joining a line of great leaders who have guided the institution over the past 164 years. Since moving to campus in late June, my husband Randy and I have been welcomed with graciousness and warmth. We appreciate the many ways in which Dr. and Mrs. Dorman were so gracious in helping us transition to Westminster and that the leadership team, the Board of Trustees, and transition committee have offered advice and support. Becoming part of an institution with such a rich history of serving students, coming to know the strong faculty and talented staff, and having the opportunity to get to know the bright, engaged students here has prompted deep gratitude. We are thankful for the larger than expected entering class of first-years and transfers—almost 400 strong—and for the progress made on campus academic, residence, and athletics facilities this summer that helped ensure we were ready for new and returning students. This fall, we have celebrated the achievements of faculty and staff and received news of new federal and state grants in support of the sciences. The national recognitions offered the College—high rankings by U.S. News & World Report, The Wall Street Journal, and Washington Monthly—have confirmed the wonderful experiences that Westminster offers its students and the ways in which they are so well prepared for success as they graduate.
Overwhelmingly, the loyalty, love and support offered to Mother Fair by alumni of all ages has been a delight. Meeting students from classes in the ’40s to the ’10s and hearing stories of how Westminster shaped their lives in such positive ways has been a continuing inspiration. How exhilarating and touching it has been to hear stories of faculty, coaches, staff and other students who challenged and inspired individuals to achieve and excel in ways beyond what they could have imagined as they began those days at Westminster. I’m grateful for those who have supported the College this year with their financial resources, those who are recognized in this issue. Giving back so that the programs and facilities that serve current students can be supported and strengthened is a tangible way of expressing gratitude for the impact Westminster has had and will continue to have for years to come. Perhaps more than anything else, however, I am grateful for what I’ve come to understand as the essential spirit of Westminster—the strong connections among alumni, faculty, staff and students that creates an enduring community of Titans that care for and with each other and that fosters a deep commitment to the wellbeing of the College. These connections distinguish Westminster as a remarkable place of growth, learning and inspiration and provide the commitment that will call us to work together to meet the needs of our students today and tomorrow. There is much to do. Building on the foundation of the liberal arts curriculum, we will continue to deepen and enrich the student educational experience so that each may graduate prepared for leadership, citizenship and achievement. As the undergraduate enrollment grows, we must work together to provide the types of facilities for academics, athletics and student life that will match the quality of our faculty, coaches and students. The support of this community will help us expand the personal and professional mentoring available to students and young alumni and to identify more ways for our students to engage meaningfully in helping address the challenges and opportunities that abound locally and globally. So many of the stories I have heard over the past few months have been punctuated by the line, “I am so thankful for all that Westminster has meant to me.” Indeed, gratitude lies at the heart of the College’s narrative. Our challenge together as we look ahead is to ensure that the challenging education, the caring environment and the distinctive opportunities that characterize the Westminster story will continue to flourish. I am thankful to have become a part of such a wonderful story. Tag me “GRATEFUL.” Dr. Kathy Brittain Richardson President 2 w w w.w e s t m i n s t e r. e d u
