Dear students and alumni,
The most wonderful time of year is here! Christmas is always a special time at CSU. It is a time to reflect on the many blessings bestowed upon us. It is also a time to give back and spread cheer throughout our communities.
As 2024 comes to a close, I am thankful for the memories we have made as a CSU family this year. As always, our fall commencement ceremony is one of the best days of the year for myself and the CSU staff. CSU Knights traveled from all over to receive their diplomas, and it is always a joyous occasion to acknowledge their extraordinary accomplishments. One graduate, Crystal Bailey, earned her associate degree in health information science with plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in health care administration. She was a stay-at-home mom who decided to pursue her degree for herself and her children after receiving encouragement from a family member. Crystal’s story is what CSU’s legacy is all about. Meeting Crystal and hearing her story of perseverance is an inspiration and one I will always remember. It is stories like these where I feel blessed to be a part of CSU and the Knight family.
Other students and alumni who have made this year inspiring are the recipients of the Outstanding Law and Fire Professionals. Josh Schultz was awarded the 2024 Outstanding Law Enforcement Professional and is currently pursuing his criminal justice administration degree. Robert McSorley Jr. was awarded the 2024 Outstanding Fire Professional and is currently studying to earn his bachelor’s degree in fire administration. Congratulations and thank you both for your service to your communities.
Each year, CSU is honored to participate in the annual Turkey Takeout in our local community of Baldwin County. Employees donated canned goods and funds to Anchor Point Church to provide families in need with a Thanksgiving dinner and other food items. This year, more than 300 items were collected to help families across Baldwin County fill their food pantries. This is one of our favorite traditions each year, and we are honored to give back to the community that always gives so much to us.
The year has proven to be an outstanding one for CSU, with the addition of many new educational opportunities. In addition to the College of Education, which launched in March, Dec. 11 marked the launching of our College of Nursing and Health Sciences. In total, CSU launched 54 new programs this year, including five doctoral programs. I am proud of the strides and growth we have made as a university. Thank you all for your hard work and dedication in making these programs come to fruition.
I hope you all enjoy your time off this holiday season and have the opportunity to spend time with your loved ones. Here at CSU, we will close our offices to do the same. CSU offices will be closed Dec. 24-26 in observance of the Christmas holidays and Jan. 1 to prepare for the New Year.
As a new year approaches, please let us know If we can be of any assistance to you. Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year.
Dr. Ken Styron
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
