The summer season on any college campus reminds one that there are indeed seasons to our work. One of the first things you notice on campus is the quiet nature of all things. It is like the campus is taking a deep breath. Although this is refreshing it is also unsettling to be without the most prized members of our community… our students. They are the reason we exist so the summer is empty (but on the bright side…so are the parking lots).

We had a very memorable graduation week. The seniors enjoyed the time on campus solidifying their friendships before they scatter to the winds. They rested in the sun, played on a slip and slide, traveled to amusement parks, served the local community and played softball against the faculty, staff and administrators. Then the ceremonies began.

The Senior Awards Banquet was well attended and many students received their reward for their labor in the past years of study. The 2007 Class Gift was an amazing plaque with a picture of Fr. Hacala which will be placed on the Acker Science Center Bridge so that he will be among the students always. They also gave to the Appalachian Institute in memory of him. The speaker was Sara Brown and she challenged her peers to find their passion.

Most Reverend Michael J Bransfield, bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, was the Principal Celebrant at the Baccalaureate Mass. As is the tradition the reception after this allowed all of us to celebrate with our graduates and their families.

The Commencement ceremonies on Saturday were the highlight of the week. The Honorable Barbara J. Masekela, South Africa's Ambassador to the USA, was our speaker. She provided an excellent address which can be viewed the WJU website. The Valedictorian was Megan J. Burd. Dr. Charles Loner received the rank of Professor Emeritus and Dr. Debra Hull received the Outstanding Teaching Award. The Kolvenbach Award was given to Mr. Louis Volpe, Class of 1970, for his service to our mission.

All of this celebration reminds us of our primary function as a University. We welcome students each year to join us in the continual pursuit of learning. We do this because it is a truly transformational process with a unique Jesuit flavor for our students. We help them find their passion to become “men and women for others.” As Alumni you are the continued connection to this purpose. So in all of these celebrations we remember you as well.

Have a great summer and please feel free to contact me at any time at lezook@wju.edu if you have any thoughts or suggestions.