A culture of engagement
It’s been almost a year since I arrived at Linfield, and can’t believe how fast it’s gone. I’ve experienced a commencement, a pinning ceremony and a convocation. There’s also been a national softball tournament, an incredible luau, a Built to Burn arts event, a “last lecture” by a retiring faculty member, the renaming of Loveridge Hall on the Portland campus and the International Pinot Noir Celebration on the McMinnville one, as well as multiple plays, gallery openings and much more. There’s a lot to do here!
All those engagement opportunities are a hallmark of Linfield’s culture. As students came back to campus this fall, we encouraged them to get involved – in clubs, sports, Greek life, student government and myriad other activities. We asked parents to go home on Friday after dropping off their new students, so the first weekend could be spent on campus activities. Research clearly shows that an engaged student is more likely to be a successful student. Engaged students also develop more affinity for their alma mater. Most of you reading this can probably attest to that fact.
I saw this affinity firsthand at homecoming this year. It was a great opportunity to connect with so many of our alumni and celebrate our annual alumni award winners. And, of course, we won the football game. I spent most of my career at an institution that didn’t always win the homecoming game, so I have to say we are spoiled here. In addition to athletics, it was great to witness reunions between old friends and classmates. More than once, I saw alumni reconnect with much-loved professors who had taught them and helped shape their future.
Speaking of professors, our faculty continue to do an amazing job in the classroom. They engage students in debate and dialogue, and they show genuine concern for each student’s success. Almost every student I meet has both a major and a minor – some have two majors, others three.
I attribute this to students getting hooked on another subject when they take a class from a compelling professor outside of their majors. It doesn’t hurt on the resume, either. I suspect many of you are eager to know more about who Linfield’s next president will be, as am I. You may have seen news articles claiming that no one wants to be a college president these days, as protests erupt on college campuses and presidential statements get increasingly politicized. But I think Linfield’s opportunity, where we keep the focus on student success, will look great in comparison to many other universities. I expect to see very strong candidates. The finalists will visit campus this month, and I know Linfield will be in good hands going forward.
