Welcome Back to Radford University for the Spring 2021 Semester!

Dear Radford Family:

Welcome back to Radford University for the Spring 2021 semester! During this semester, we will continue to build upon the responsive and resilient Highlander spirit, which defined our time together during the fall. A highlight of the prior semester was our talented students who excelled in the classroom as a result of their individual efforts and the collective support of our world-class faculty and dedicated staff. Our successful work was showcased by providing a strong in-person experience in which students achieved a grade point average consistent with prior academic terms.

Throughout this semester, all students, faculty, and staff are strongly encouraged to model the Highlander value of excellence through our everyday actions. We must be mindful of the continued presence of COVID-19 by wearing face coverings, exercising physical distancing, and practicing good hygiene. Additionally, we must fulfill our personal responsibility by complying with various precautions and requirements. Most of all, we need to daily demonstrate the caring and compassionate nature of Highlanders through positive behaviors with kindness and respect for all!

Despite the continued pandemic across the world and growing unrest in our country, I am excited and optimistic about the contributions that will be made by Highlanders in the coming months and as we move forward together. Just yesterday, the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. was celebrated through an annual national holiday. Although Radford University’s traditional MLK Day of Service could not be held, I am confident that Highlanders will give back to their communities through our modified format as we continue to find ways to reflect upon important milestones in our society and carry out the University’s focus on service above self. For additional information about this year’s “Beyond the Dream” effort, please visit https://www.radford.edu/content/diversity/home/mlk-2021.html.

Tomorrow, as the inauguration is held in our nation’s capital, Highlander students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to promote acceptance, hope, kindness, and love in their personal interactions and daily work. As members of an inclusive and supportive community, we need to serve as an example for others. In the words of Dr. King, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: Only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: Only love can do that.”


With Highlander Pride,

Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President