Interim President Matthew J. Wilson
Dear Student,
As you focus on your finals, I want to wish you much success and remind you how grateful we are that you chose to be part of our University family. It has been an honor for me to serve as your president, and I am committed to doing even more in the future.
My favorite experiences this past year have been interacting with so many of you. Whether it was saying “hello” to you as I walk across campus, chatting with you at an event, shooting hoops, bowling in the Union, or cheering on our Zips teams, I gained so much from your energy and enthusiasm. Also, I have been deeply touched by your outpouring of support for one another as well as your unity and resilience.
I truly hope your experience this year has been a good one. Please know that my door is always open, and this invitation doesn’t end with the academic year. You can always contact me if you need my help or simply want to provide feedback. We are committed to continuously improving the best educational experience at UA, because your success is our success, and the success of the UA family. If people are saying positive things about UA, the value of your degree is enhanced that much more.
If you are to graduate this month or summer, congratulations on this milestone achievement! I hope you plan to attend commencement where the provost, deans, and I can greet you onstage and shake your hand in recognition of this great accomplishment. You have our best wishes for your immediate plans. For those planning on returning for advanced degrees, we welcome your contributions to our scholarly community. For those about to embark on professional careers, remember — you aren’t leaving us — rather, you are transitioning from student to alumni. UA will always be part of you, and you part of us. When one succeeds, we all succeed.
If you still have some studies ahead, let’s both look forward to your return this summer or fall. Please register for courses now if you haven’t already done so. If you are on track, please know that we stand ready to help you in whatever way possible. If you are struggling or even questioning your future studies, we stand ready to advise and assist. We want to make your education as positive and beneficial as we can, and we need your feedback to do that. Again, I ask you to let me or your college deans know if there are areas that we can do to better to facilitate your education or experience.
Finally, this summer let your Zip pride show. Wear your Akron gear and when asked, tell people about UA. Spread the word about yourselves and our great institution, because our reputations depend on each other. If you are traveling this summer, we will be rolling out a campaign to feature UA pride with your photos. Please stay tuned for additional details.
Once again, good luck and best wishes on your finals, projects, and papers. Have a safe and enjoyable summer, and I hope to see you soon.
Sincerely,
Matthew J. Wilson
President
The University of Akron