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Spring Semester Message from President Hatch

by Betsy Chapman

President Hatch sent the following message to the campus community on January 14

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Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

The beginning of a new year elicits hope. No matter what has occurred in the previous 365 days, we cling to the aspiration that the days ahead will bring something more, something better.

With refreshed optimism, we make resolutions – get fit, eat healthier, get out of debt, quit procrastinating, volunteer, spend more time with family and friends – in an effort to improve ourselves. When the calendar turns to January, we hope that we will be better this year, and we anticipate the chance to try.

From the very start, education encouraged people to stretch their minds, explore new ideas and engage deeply in thought. At its very core is the idea that education can make us better – thinkers, listeners, citizens, writers, communicators, problem solvers, contributors – and by being better, we can inspire those around us in similar ways.

I invite you to approach this new year with hope and a drive to improve in the coming months. Give this semester – your classes, your peers, your colleagues, your community – your full attention. Invite your mind, soul, intellect and emotions into the affairs of your day; be present and engaged in your activities and relationships.

Some opportunities for you this semester include:

  • Ambassador Attallah Shabazz and Ilyasah Shabazz, daughters of civil rights icons Malcom X and Betty Shabazz, will join Dean Gillespie in a conversation to celebrate and honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on January 18. Learn more here.
  •  On February 20, we will host TEDxWakeForestU, where we will hear messages from national and international leaders around the theme, “Haven: Fearlessness Reimagined.” Learn more here.
  •  Celebrate writers and writing at Words Awake! This event brings together our campus, alumni, area and regional schools, and friends from around the globe. Learn more here.
  • Help end childhood hunger by serving alongside other Demon Deacons during Pro Humanitate Day on April 9. Be on the lookout for more information.

My hope for you and our community is that this semester will be the best one yet. Welcome back!

Sincerely,

Nathan O. Hatch
President

Contact

To contact the Office of Family Engagement or Family Communications, please visit our contact page.

 

For mental health assistance: 336-758-CARE (2273) is a service that ensures someone will always be available (i.e., 24/7 M-F, weekends and university holidays) to provide caring and thoughtful consultation services for Wake Forest students in need of mental health assistance or support. You can also visit we.wfu.edu for resources.