We are just coming out of a very busy month with the CSU open house, commencement ceremonies, off-site faculty visits, and the hosting of various workshops.
As I do each year, I really enjoyed seeing so many graduates and their families at the graduation ceremonies. It means so much to see and hear stories from our graduates about their experiences with our faculty and staff. I am always humbled by how appreciative our students are and how there are certain staff and faculty they specifically desire to meet because they went the extra mile to assist them.
To all the graduates and guests, I would like to extend my thanks to you for coming to our beautiful slice of the Gulf Coast. I also wish to thank our guest speaker Andy Andrews for a unique message filled with humor and advice for graduates as they strive to make a difference in the world. My thanks to the Board of Trustees, city and state officials and other distinguished guests. You helped make this a remarkable day for all!
As November moves forward, we welcome the CSU program directors who work and live in different parts of the country. These program directors will be spending a week at the CSU campus meeting, attending training sessions, and planning for the future. I am delighted that we have such a dedicated group of individuals who strive for excellence in quality and teaching.
November also means the beginning of the traditional holiday season as Thanksgiving and Christmas approach. I know we all get busy around this time of year with family gatherings, travel, shopping, planning, cooking, etc. It is my hope CSU students, faculty, and staff are able to enjoy sometime with family and friends during this busy season of the year. You will find the CSU holiday schedule included in this Communicator for reference as you plan your studies.
As Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks to family and friends, I would like to first thank our students and alumni for choosing CSU to help you reach your educational goals. To the CSU faculty and staff, I would like to say thank you for your commitment to CSU’s vision and mission of changing and improving lives through education. CSU is truly a different type of institution. We care greatly for our students, faculty, and staff. We focus on building long-term relationships, creating a work environment of caring and respect, and most importantly, offering exceptional and personal service to our students.
Lastly, I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
I wish CSU would have two graduation ceremonies. One in the Spring and one in the Fall. I will be graduating in February, 2013 and I have to wait until October to walk down that stage.