As we near the end of the Fall Semester, it's remarkable to reflect on all that has transpired. Our students are preparing for the final stretch of their academic journey this semester, and we are excited to share that Dr. Janice Underwood, former Commonwealth of Virginia Chief Diversity Officer and current Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (ODEIA) for the White House, will be our keynote speaker for the 2023 Winter Commencement Ceremony. Her message is sure to inspire our graduating students as they transition beyond VWU.

In keeping with our commitment to accessible education, VWU has secured a substantial federal grant aimed at supporting first-generation and low-income students. This crucial initiative is designed to bolster enrollment, retention, and graduation rates among underserved populations, further reinforcing our dedication to cultivating an inclusive and nurturing educational environment.

We are proud to have hosted the Intentional Endowments Network's Fall Forum, a program dedicated to exploring sustainable investments and their societal impact. This event highlights our dedication to leveraging educational resources for a more sustainable economic landscape. Additionally, our students actively participate in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's Oyster Gardening Program, contributing positively to environmental sustainability and community engagement.

We are pleased to introduce six new scholars who have recently joined the VWU faculty. Their diverse perspectives and passion for teaching enrich our academic community. At the same time, we celebrate Dr. Clayton Drees, Professor of History, who is entering his 32nd and final year at VWU. His dedication to teaching has left a lasting impact on our academic community.

Our students and alumni continue to advocate for causes important to them. As the election season approaches, our students promote civic participation, celebrating Vote Early Day and emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. Additionally, co-authors Meghan Ashburn '08 and Jules Edwards recently shared their insights on autism advocacy during a book signing and reading of their work titled "I Will Die On This Hill," aligning with our commitment to fostering important dialogues on campus.

These updates and events collectively reflect our dedication to providing an inclusive educational experience while fostering community, environmental responsibility, and active engagement with societal issues.

Sincerely,