As a land-grant institution, West Virginia University’s purpose is to help people when it matters most. And nothing our university does has a more powerful and direct impact on people than the lifesaving care our health care professionals provide.
Last month kicked off the first day of classes and the beginning of West Virginia University’s fall semester. The start of a school year always represents potential. There is a sense of excitement in the air. Optimism is contagious. There are numerous opportunities to make new friends, try different experiences and continue to develop as a person.
For the last ten years, I have gone
on county tours to visit our state’s 55 counties. I believe our campus
stretches beyond the physical borders of Morgantown, Beckley or Keyser. Our
campus encompasses the entire state, and nothing excites me more than to visit
the communities that are proud to call us their flagship university. Alongside
graduation and beating Pitt: it is one of those events that never gets old.
“Last” can be defined as a conclusion; a time when things are done. However, as I prepare for my final – or last – year at West Virginia University, I am not focused on concluding my tenure as a university president. Instead, I am focused on ensuring the work we are doing at West Virginia University – to ensure every West Virginian has access to a world-class education, to improve the future of our beloved state and to contribute to our American democracy – will last.
My life’s calling has been to change lives through education. And for 44 years, I have been inspired to work every day alongside others who have shared that calling with me. There is no doubt that higher education is at a pivotal moment today. At such a moment, it is important to remain grounded in the principles that form the foundation for our university.