Dear EIU family members:

First and foremost, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the entire EIU community for the heartfelt support I have received since my appointment as university president. I am truly humbled by the trust that has been placed in me, and I am committed to serving our university with dedication and passion. As I step into this role, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the remarkable journey that lies ahead.

My vision for our university is one where every member feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to reach their full potential. Together, let's foster an environment that promotes not only academic excellence and culture, but also personal and professional growth.

In the days and weeks ahead, I look forward to getting to really know each of you and hearing your thoughts, aspirations, and concerns. Your experiences and perspectives are invaluable, and I believe in the power of collaboration to drive positive change.

One of my key priorities is to ensure that EIU remains a place where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. Inclusivity is not just a goal but a guiding principle that will shape my decisions and actions. I am committed to creating an environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

I am eager to work alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni to create the legacy of EIU. Together, we can create a future that reflects our shared values and aspirations. Let this moment mark the beginning of a new chapter in our collective story. As we navigate the opportunities and challenges before us, I want to emphasize the importance of unity and collaboration. Our strength lies in our diversity, and by working together, we can achieve extraordinary things.

Thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility. I am honored to serve as your president and look forward to collaborating with each of you to write the next chapter of EIU's extraordinary story.