The fall semester on campus and online is well underway as we head into the holiday season. I trust that your studies have been productive and provided a new vista in your work and thinking. One of the great joys of study is the discovery of connections, new ideas, and often unforeseen vision the opportunity to learn provides. Enjoy it at all phases of your journey. I’m not sure how the fall has slipped by so quickly but am reminded by the impending snow coming to Vermont, and scurry to get my snow tires on the truck!
We are increasingly excited about the impending opening of the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies new location in downtown Denver in early 2020. More specifically, the Norwich flag will fly on Auraria Avenue near the Pepsi Center for those familiar with the city. The office will also serve as a resource for our students and partners in the Denver region, and more generally in the western United States, as well as a business development center. Be on the look-out for more information about the opening and activities planned this spring. I look forward to visiting Denver regularly and meeting with our alumni and students at our “Norwich West” location.
Since I last wrote the campus hosted an amazing homecoming and 200th birthday celebration in September, the likes of which I have not seen in my three decades at the university. Over 6,000 alumni, family, and friends descended on campus to celebrate our milestone birthday and connect across generations of the Norwich family. It was wonderful to see many of my former students, some who had not been back to campus for many years while we reminisced about a time when we were all much younger! The rewards of seeing Norwich graduates of all ages excel in their careers and contribute to the nation in many diverse ways were great and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Among the other highlights of the weekend was the bicentennial birthday party-dinner held in Shapiro Field house. I attended with my daughter, who is also a graduate of the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies, making the evening and Norwich connection even more special. Governor Phil Scott delivered a wonderful address emphasizing the important role of Norwich University in the state of Vermont, and President Schneider for his leadership in the higher education community. A recap of homecoming is available on the alumni office website at https://alumni.norwich.edu/HC/PastYearsRecap; I encourage you to take a look if you were not able to attend.
As we wrap up the calendar year and rapidly head toward 2020, I continue to note that the third century of Norwich University service to the nation has begun. Our alumni, faculty, and students will be an important part of the story for our third century, go forth and do us proud!
