Dear Members of the George Washington University Community,
I am delighted to welcome you to campus as we begin the fall 2022 semester and a new academic year. This is always an exciting time for me, even after more than three decades in higher education leadership! Since I joined the George Washington University in January, I have had the opportunity to meet many outstanding students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other members of this distinguished community. I have learned from you about what makes the university special, and I have seen the positive impact our community has through our teaching, research, patient care, and service.
As we embark on our third century, we are continuing to create new knowledge and accelerate our progress as a world-class research institution. During the past several months, this progress has been evident in the enrollment of another talented and diverse class of students as well as our ability to retain and recruit preeminent faculty, staff, and leadership. It also has been evident through my interactions with members of our enthusiastic alumni and donor communities and partners in the District government, on Capitol Hill, and beyond who are engaged with us for our expertise.
Of course, with each new year comes some challenges. However, I hope we will see challenges as opportunities. Although the pandemic continues to affect the university and all institutions of higher education, we are redefining the on-campus student experience and the ways we build a welcoming and inclusive community. I saw this in action just a few days ago while meeting students at the renovated Thurston Hall for Move-In and participating in First Night, Convocation, and our graduate student welcome event. We also are continuing to refine how we teach, learn, and work to best serve the university and our mission.
My aim, as I shared earlier this year, is to assist the university in achieving a strong foundation for its third century. I am very proud to be part of a community leading work that has an important impact and influence in the nation’s capital, nationally, and globally. I look forward to opportunities to meet more members of our community and find additional ways to support you and further the progress of our university. We are on a great path.
There is much to accomplish this fall, and during busy and exciting moments it can be difficult to pause and reflect. Please remember to take time for yourself and offer your care, respect, and support to others. My best wishes to each of you for a productive, fulfilling, and enjoyable semester!
Sincerely yours,
Mark S. Wrighton
President