Last week I began my fifth month as Radford University’s President.  You could say my semester started June 1, so I understand all too well how students are feeling at this point -- stressed because there are not enough hours in a day to accomplish all we want to.

First, let me say how proud I am to be RU’s sixth and the first woman president in our 95-year history.  As you may know I grew up in Southwest Virginia and like you am a product of Virginia public colleges and universities.  I have an M.B.A. from The College of William and Mary and a law degree from the University of Virginia.  My career track has included higher education, the corporate sector and state government. 

From the moment my appointment was announced, I pledged to be engaged in campus life, whether it’s eating at Muse Marketplace or cheering on the Highlanders at a sports event.  RU has so many outstanding characteristics, and each day I run into students who give the institution the grade of A for a number of reasons: 

• For the faculty who believe that teaching and mentoring are the most important characteristics of a university environment
• For academic programs of high quality
• For a beautiful campus setting and surrounding recreational areas
• For one of the friendliest campus communities anywhere in the country

These attributes, I believe, are the right formula for an outstanding university experience.

But I want more for you and this institution.   In the next couple of years there will be new programs, new and renovated facilities, perhaps even new parking venues that will contribute to a better campus life for us all.  In the past months I have worked with students in a variety of settings including the Quest orientation program and with S.G.A. President Stephanie Harmon and other members of the Student Government Association. 

You are an integral part of the fabric of who Radford University is and your influence will be felt for years to come.  In the coming months work with your Student Government Association’s leaders and let us know what you’d like to see improved as well as what you think is special about RU.  Or when you see me out on campus, introduce yourself and give me your ideas. We’re all part of the RU Family, and I need input from you as together we create a vision of what Radford University can be.