Dear Friends,
I never imagined a few short months ago I would be writing this letter to you in the midst of a global pandemic while our faculty and staff work tirelessly to provide the best educational experience for our students on a digital and virtual platform. But that is our collective reality.
First, I hope and pray that you and your families are safe and healthy. That is the most important thing. Second, we debated long and hard about completing this spring magazine, which showcases the amazing accomplishments of our students and faculty. We ultimately decided during this period of uncertainty and anxiety, you might want an uplifting diversion from the challenges and stress that you face. And what better way than to learn about and reflect upon Maryville’s wonderful students, alumni, staff and faculty.
You will read about our students and the difference they make in their communities as well as the cutting-edge innovation of this University across academic fields, technology and student service. You will also hear about the digital transformation of our campus, our commitment to access and diversity and about our Maryville nursing community made up of students, staff, faculty and alumni who are an inspiration to us all — especially during this current pandemic.
Let me say to all of you with great pride, the investment and work our faculty and staff have done over several years has allowed us to pivot during this crisis and provide quality education to our students despite this pandemic. Our community of learners have come together to make sure that our students get a quality education to not only finish the semester but also position them for graduation or their continued studies as we move forward. Always forward.
We are saddened that we had to cancel or postpone many University events including our May 2 graduation. Rest assured, we are planning a number of activities in the future, once this virus abates, to salute our wonderful graduates. This situation cannot dampen our spirit of celebration for what they have all accomplished.
Finally, I want to dedicate this issue of Maryville Magazine to health care workers (nurses, therapists, doctors and technicians). So many of these incredibly brave people are Maryville graduates and current graduate students who are working night and day under extremely difficult conditions to diagnose, treat and heal thousands across this region and nation. You are the first responders of this crisis, and you are our superheroes.
Please stay safe, be healthy and know I am looking forward to what I pray is a wonderful on-campus fall semester filled with dreams, wonder and inspiration.
Bless you all,