During our Reunion Weekend in June, more than 1,200 alumni spanning nearly 60 class years returned to campus to celebrate the past and ambitiously look to the future. One such alumna was Evelyn Fluck Babylon, a proud member of the Class of 1948. She was honored at our annual Reunion Collation and it was clear that Evelyn’s passion for her alma mater is as fervent as ever, even 75 years after her graduation day!
The collective energy and enthusiasm shown throughout the weekend was inspiring. It serves as a testament to our shared commitment to Gettysburg College’s mission and continued success. It also underscores that our College is more than a place to learn and grow over the course of four years. The connections our students form to the College and to each other are enduring.
Indeed, it’s what drives us to show up for one another, now and always.
As Gettysburgians, we have a responsibility to show up for today’s students and prepare them to navigate a world that is bound to look dramatically different than the one many of us stepped into when we graduated. With a changing climate, the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence, and social, political, and economic forces that are increasing in intensity and complexity, our students will need an education that equips them with the knowledge and skills to rise to the challenges and opportunities of their time.
Through Living Our Promise: The Strategic Direction for Gettysburg College (www.gettysburg.edu/strategicdirection) we have identified Four Areas of Focus to guide the institution’s decision-making and priorities in the years ahead. Importantly, these areas build upon our College’s greatest strengths and will position us to deliver on our promise of A Consequential Education for generations of Gettysburg students.
Our Four Areas of Focus are:
- Academic Excellence
- A Transformational and Integrated Student Experience
- A Culture of Belonging and Wellness
- Institutional Effectiveness
An intentional, community-wide focus on any one of these initiatives would shape our institution in profound ways. Yet, when brought together, they will enhance one another, work in unison, and fortify the whole. I encourage you to review our Four Areas of Focus (pages 1-5) and consider how you can get involved. By showing up for one another and supporting our students, we will propel Gettysburg College into what is sure to be a remarkable third century.
In the words of my predecessor, Milton Valentine, a Class of 1850 alumnus and former president of Gettysburg College, “Our work lies invitingly before us.”
Sincerely,
Bob Iuliano
President
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