Dear UMW Community,
Welcome back! For those returning to campus, we look forward to catching up where we left off and sharing the tremendous work that has continued through the summer. And for our newest members of the UMW community, we are eager to meet and get to know you.
As with every new academic year, we are excited about all of the learning opportunities, both in and out of the classroom, that our deeply committed faculty provide. Sharing knowledge and encouraging critical thinking, curiosity, and collaboration are fundamental to our approach to learning. And, our staff provide essential services to help students navigate housing, student life, books and supplies for classes, dining options, financial aid, academic advising, registration for classes, and so much more.
Returning students, we encourage you to continue to enhance your relationships with faculty, advisors, and staff who genuinely want to help you succeed. Consider new challenges; learn new skills; develop new friendships, and expand your knowledge and grow through internships, research projects, study abroad programs, student employment opportunities, etc.
New students, we are ready to share this journey with you. Our ASPIRE values of accountability, scholarship, personal and institutional integrity, inclusive excellence, respect and civility, and engagement provide a diverse, accepting, and supporting environment for everyone — faculty, staff, and students alike.
We encourage you to immerse yourself in all aspects of campus life by asking questions, introducing yourself to others, joining clubs, participating in activities and events, and exploring all that Mary Washington and the Fredericksburg area have to offer. And, I personally invite you to join me this weekend for some cherished Mary Washington traditions such as Honor Convocation and the President’s Ice Cream Social.
As a community and as individuals, it’s important that we prioritize wellness and well-being, seeking out the many, varied resources on campus as needed and taking care of ourselves and one another. And, by means of this monthly message, I’ll share news, updates, and important announcements to keep you informed about the many things on which I am working. If there are topics or issues you would like for these messages to address, please submit suggestions to president@umw.edu.
There is much to look forward to this year, and I have great hope that it will be one filled with abundant learning opportunities and personal accomplishments. I look forward to seeing you at Eagle Gathering this weekend and on campus!
Sincerely,
Troy Paino
