IUS Times

Chancellor's Outlook - Joyful Transitions

Three years ago I was quite surprised but also very pleased to find on my schedule an appointment with a new freshman. The young woman that arrived at my office was bright and enthusiastic but also just a little nervous and unsure about the new educational adventure which she had chosen. We chatted a good while about her choice to go to college, what challenges and opportunities it would present for her, and what she needed to do in order to be successful. I wished her good luck and asked her to check in with me periodically and let me know how she was doing and if I could help in any way. I remember thinking that her positive attitude and determination - even to the point of immediately scheduling an appointment with the Chancellor as a good "start off" for college - bode well for her future.

Yesterday I encountered this student out in the hallway. Although I had seen her on campus numerous times over the past several years and got glimpses of her progress, this time I was very pleased and proud to see a true "senior." She was still bright and enthusiastic, but her education here had added a poise and self-confidence which I had only seen in seedling form previously. She proudly announced that she would be graduating this spring and was looking forward to shaking my hand at graduation. I assured her that I was excited about shaking her hand at graduation.

I am so pleased with the energy and positive attitude with which this student has pursued her education, indeed her life. In spite of that youthful uncertainty I witnessed years ago, she was ready for her transition to college living and learning - and now she is ready for yet another transition. I am also quite proud of how our fine educators at IU Southeast have nurtured this student's progress. I believe we have successfully prepared her for the many transitions which inevitably will punctuate her life.

As we close out another calendar year and enjoy our holiday get-togethers with family and friends, I think we must also be cognizant of the varied transitions occurring all around us. Some are subtle. They may not be as dramatic as the six-inch growth in stature of a nephew, the marriage of a daughter, or a long-awaited graduation from college. They may simply be the subtle growth of a mind more open to differing perspectives, the ability to speak one's thoughts or values more coherently, or the willingness to do volunteer work in support of others' needs.

While we celebrate many milestones and transitions at this particular time of the year, every day in the realm of education offers us success stories of personal and professional development. Education is a year-round endeavor fuelling the growth and achievement which we recognize and celebrate so much during the holidays.

To our IU Southeast campus community, much appreciation for all you do to nurture our students, guide their educational transitions, and point their efforts towards rich and fulfilling lives. Best wishes for much happiness in this past year's accomplishments and the bright promise of a new year.

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