Let me start this week by welcoming our incoming freshmen, transfers and new faculty members to Sacred Heart University and welcoming back our upperclassmen, returning faculty and staff. I always enjoy being on campus during Move-in Weekend as everyone arrives and gets settled. It’s a time of excitement and renewal. Anything seems possible. I wish you all a productive and successful year with a lot of fun thrown into the mix.

Another highlight for me is the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit. During all the hustle and bustle of moving in and getting organized, it’s so important to take time to seek wisdom and guidance as we embark on a new academic year.

One of the Welcome Weekend activities was a showing of the movie, Restrepo, which was co-directed by Sebastion Junger. This summer’s reading assignment for incoming freshmen was Junger’s War, which they will be discussing among themselves and with their professors in the coming weeks. Restrepo features the same platoon that Junger wrote about in War. We will also be honored to host Sebastion Junger on campus later this semester.

Another Welcome Weekend event was the College of Business dinner on Labor Day evening. I want to thank the 15 College of Business faculty members who wrapped up their holiday weekend by attending the dinner. The support and interest of the faculty means a great deal to the students, and I know they appreciated your presence. Besides, the food was great, and the fellowship was wonderful.

Yesterday, I attended the faculty reception on campus. It was great to see everyone and listen to the buzz of conversation as professors discussed their plans for the coming year. Already, I have had a chance to speak with so many students and faculty members. I’m looking forward to touching base with the rest of you in the coming weeks and months.