Messages to the University community
President's Perspective
Sept. 6, 2016
Welcome back for the 2016-17 academic year. We're off and running—literally. I can't remember ever seeing a school year start at the pace of this one.
A year of change
Aug. 1, 2016
I have informed our Board of Trustees that I plan to retire at the end of my current term—on June 30, 2017. But, there remains much to be done. My goal is to do all that I can to continue the University's forward movement, accelerating and expanding upon what we have already begun together.
A new health plan option for 2017
July 22, 2016
A committee comprised of representatives from all the benefits-eligible campus employee groups has been working since September to identify a less expensive health care plan option, which will be added as an option—an alternative to the BCBSM PPO that WMU already offers to employees—beginning in January 2017.
Orlando Shooting Statement
June 17, 2016
Late this week a rainbow flag was raised on a flagpole in the center of our campus. Once raised, it was promptly lowered to half staff—a symbolic move to honor those lost as a result of the June 12 mass shooting in Orlando.
Respecting Differences 2016: Bridging the Generational Divide
March 21, 2016
As stakeholders of Western Michigan University, we carry a collective responsibility for creating an environment where every person can be respected, appreciated, and have an opportunity to succeed.
WMU Alert System
Feb. 21, 2016
We're tremendously saddened by the senseless acts of violence that occurred Feb. 20 and join the wider Kalamazoo county community in its grief.
President's Perspective
Jan. 11, 2016
Welcome back for the start of the spring 2016 semester. A lot has happened over the past month, and we're poised to launch a semester full of accomplishment and celebration.
Reaffirming our values
Dec. 14, 2015
On Saturday, more than 1,800 of our students will graduate from Western Michigan University. Each of them will celebrate their individual achievements, and as a University, we will celebrate the success of the diverse academic community we have built.
WMU United Way Campaign
Nov. 18, 2015
With our WMU United Way campaign up and running, I want to thank you for your support and partnership. It really makes a difference!
An Opportunity to Reflect and Recommit
Nov. 15, 2015
The recent events on the University of Missouri campus have attracted national attention and led many, appropriately, to stop and reflect about substantive issues that still plague our society and additional change that is needed.
State of the University
Oct. 2, 2015
Good afternoon honorees, guests, community members, students, faculty and staff members. I'm very pleased you're here with us today to celebrate the accomplishments of our colleagues who exemplify the mission, vision, values, past accomplishments and potential of Western Michigan University.
President's Perspective
Sept. 8, 2015
We're off and running in what has been a high-profile start to the school year. The weeks leading up to the fall kickoff have been enjoyable. Today, however, marks the start of a new academic year and the fundamental work of the University. Welcome to the 2015-16 academic year.
President's Perspective
June 16, 2015
We are rapidly approaching the close of the 2014-15 academic and fiscal years. Just two weeks from now, we'll celebrate the success of our students with the year's final set of commencement ceremonies.
President's Perspective
March 16, 2015
For those of you who, like me, were able to get away for a few days over spring recess, welcome back. The weather is much better than when we left. For those of you who stayed on campus and made tracks getting to some of those back-burner projects, thank you.
Interim Sexual Misconduct Policy
Jan. 13, 2015
As I mentioned in a recent message to the campus community, now that our students are back on campus, it is time to roll out a new policy and set of procedures for addressing sexual misconduct. The move is part of our longstanding commitment to maintaining a safe campus.
President's Perspective
Jan. 6, 2015
Welcome back. I hope your holiday break was restful, joyful and full of opportunities to revitalize. The spring semester and upcoming year will be full of the kind of activity that will require energy, focus and commitment.