Next week, we will gather to celebrate Founders Day, a special occasion that allows us to reflect upon and honor the rich history of our institution. This year's ceremony promises to be particularly remarkable as we welcome Leighton Clarke Krips, daughter of former president Lambuth M. Clarke, as our keynote speaker. Additionally, we will proudly recognize four outstanding alumni who have made significant contributions to their fields with our annual Alumni Awards presented by the VWU Alumni Council.

During my recent 2023 State of the University Address, I delved into the exciting potential that lies ahead for both our students and the broader community through our innovative partnership with the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art. This collaboration not only boldly expands upon our founders' visionary ideals but also redefines the possibilities of a liberal arts education. The address also highlighted the strides we're making in enrollment, academic programs, student wellness, and fundraising, while also reaffirming our commitment to affordability, ensuring that a high-quality education remains within reach for all deserving students.

As we commemorate our founding, it is important to reflect upon the individuals who have propelled us to where we stand today. We mourn the passing of former president William T. Greer, Jr., who played a pivotal role in shaping Virginia Wesleyan during his tenure spanning over two decades. Among his enduring legacies are the introduction of our four-credit curriculum that emphasizes experiential learning and the establishment of the Birdsong Community Service Program, which has become a cornerstone of our university's mission.

Our mission is interwoven into each of our endeavors, and we invite you to explore the remarkable stories of achievement and progress in our newly released fall edition of the VWU Magazine. Continuously, we ensure our good future through community and corporate partnerships that benefit our students and thought-provoking discussions led by guest speakers on pressing topics such as artificial intelligence and its implications for education.

With a new semester dawning, the campus is buzzing with anticipation for the exciting events, academic pursuits, and personal growth that lie ahead. There's so much to explore this semester at Virginia Wesleyan, and we look forward to sharing in the vibrancy of our thriving academic community with you.

Sincerely,