Douglas Covington becomes the university's fifth president when he takes office June 1. I believe that students are Radford University's highest priority. Above all else that we do as educators, we are in the business of developing human talent. So without apology and with relentless vigor and determination, we must give of ourselves and demand of our students all that is necessary to prepare them for career success and responsible citizenship in a global society. In keeping with its mission, Radford University is charged with ensuring that those who matriculate are offered an educationally sound, relevant curriculum which stimulates optimal academic achievement, personal growth and career preparation.
Education is a continuing process for everyone.
Therefore, we must encourage students to extend the development of their potential through a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and skills. Lifelong learning poses a major challenge which should be met fully with emphasis on diversity as well as excellence. Radford University must foster a learning environment wherein an increasingly diversified student clientele enjoys rights commensurate with responsibilities. To that end, students should be afforded equal opportunity to pursue their respective educational goals in keeping with individual potential. Likewise, each student must strive diligently to maximize that opportunity and, in so doing, better the university community.