Our academic leaders and faculty are imagining the educational Ashland of the future, one that ensures our foundational “core” courses produce better thinkers, writers and speakers, and also envisions how burgeoning science and technology will enhance the learning experience for our students as well. Our developing Center for Teaching Excellence and Innovation will invest in our faculty to develop leading practices informed by the best in academic research. When fully formed, it promises to be an “engine of innovation” that will lead to new program development, improved pedagogical practice, and an ongoing culture of academic innovation. We will also look to our 138 years’ worth of tradition to enliven our campus anew. Ashland’s traditions are founded in the belief that every student has a unique, God-given destiny, and that helping students find their life calling is a critical part of the Ashland experience. To help achieve this goal, we will establish lectures, conferences and conversations for our students to experience the ongoing intersection between faith and society. Because we are founded on enduring virtues and transcendent beliefs, we will perpetuate our traditions as we transmit the values that create tomorrow’s leaders. Our campus infrastructure will also be a primary focus in the days ahead. Improved student housing and a refresh of our Center for the Arts are among our top priorities. We realize that every space on our campus reflects our commitment to excellence and is part of a unified learning environment. We will also be looking to expand our online offerings to reach more students with our defining value, “Accent on the Individual.” Because a healthy campus will enhance the learning experience, we will continue to develop our “Eagle Well” initiative. The efforts of our campus wellness director, Dr. Deborah Sullivan, have already been recognized, as Ashland University has been named a “White House Healthy Campus.” In the months ahead, we will focus on all aspects of wellness, from environmental to spiritual, physical and more. Our community engagement efforts will continue as well. We know that as “Ashland Rises, Ashland Rises,” acknowledging the intimate connection between the University and the Ashland community. Our “Corporate Connections” program will continue to expand, as we connect local, regional, and national businesses with AU. This initiative will ensure that our students have outstanding internship opportunities and we also respond to the demands of the workplace as we prepare our graduates effectively. We can be assured that 2017 will bring its own challenges and exciting discoveries. At Ashland University, we look forward to the year with a clear plan to keep our University “rising” to meet the future and prepare our students for work and for life.