Dear Friends,
I don’t believe any of us will soon forget 2020. And it isn’t over yet. We are living through the deadliest pandemic in 100 years as we grapple with the issues of racial and social justice and engage in a fractious presidential election. Despite all of this, I can tell you that your Maryville community, students, faculty, staff and alumni have adapted, persevered, managed and thrived. Their passion and commitment in trying times is a wonder to behold.
This issue will just touch on some of the amazing stories and events that have shaped our response to COVID-19 embodied in the heroes and leaders we spotlight. You will read about our technology forward strategy that not only enhanced learning but helped us navigate the COVID-19 restrictions and supported all students so they could continue to make substantial progress in their education. You will read about innovators who overcome obstacles to reach students, community members and those less fortunate to make a profound difference in their lives. And you will read about our amazing progress in building the New University of the 21st century.
Despite the issues we all face, Maryville continues to grow and thrive as evidenced by our being named the second fastest-growing private University in the nation by the Chronicle of Higher Education. It is also evidenced by reduction of traditional undergraduate tuition by five percent this fall. This represents our strategic commitment to bend the cost curve back for students and over the next several years we hope to reduce that amount by a total of 20 percent.
This fall we are managing the pandemic with a prudent, hybrid approach to our students’ learning in which public health and safety are paramount. Maryville and the nation still have a long way to go, but we have a creative and committed faculty, an energetic staff and the best students anywhere. Together we will emerge as the leaders of a revolution in higher education that expands access and opportunity for all. Please be safe.
Warmest regards,