Charting the next leg of the journey
A presidential transition is an exciting time for a college. Since joining Union in 1963, I have been privileged to witness-and at times participate in-the arrival of five presidents. Nothing has pleased me more greatly than the arrival of Stephen Ainlay.
During my six months as interim president, I have been invigorated by the possibilities for Union's future. To hand over the reins to someone of Stephen's caliber is gratifying indeed.
You can read more in this magazine about Stephen and his unique qualifications to lead Union College. I will submit here my personal observation that he is not only eager to begin; he has throughout his career been deeply committed to the liberal arts ideal and the kinds of endeavors we cherish here at Union-a strong collaboration between students and professors, and a commitment to internationalism and diversity in all its forms that crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Over the past months, in anticipation of the arrival of a new president, we have been hard at work doing the preliminary work that is necessary to create a strategic plan under Stephen Ainlay's leadership. I am happy to report that Union has never been stronger, and our promise never greater. Our five “pillars”-Undergraduate Research, International Studies, Converging Technologies, the Minerva House System and Community Service-are distinctions that would be attractive to any new president.
Most of all, it is people who make Union special. We have a faculty of outstanding teachers and scholars who understand that students learn best in close collaboration with their professors and other students. We have students who rise readily to the challenges that they find both in and out of the classroom. We have tremendously talented and dedicated staff. And we have a close family of alumni who proudly carry the Union banner and give generously to ensure that Union remains strong.
The success of the “You Are Union” campaign, now at the halfway point of its $200 million goal, is important not just for bringing the College to the next level of excellence. It is a clear message that members of the Union community feel strongly that we are committed to the right path for the College.
The next president of Union-Stephen C. Ainlay-arrives at what may be the most exciting time in our history. I look forward to working closely with Stephen during the transition, and helping to chart the next leg of Union's journey. Both he and we are fortunate-he comes to an exceptional college and we get an exceptional leader who understands the special strengths and opportunities for Union.