President's Blog: From the Heart

By Eric F. Spina

(University of Dayton President Eric F. Spina wishes the UD family "a joyous Christmas, one that brings to mind that Holy Night from so many centuries ago. May your New Year," he wrote in his Christmas message, "be filled with good health and the greatest gifts of all — faith, hope, and love.")

Dear UD Family,

"A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices…"

To be a Dayton Flyer is to be an optimist. I firmly believe that, but the last nine months have tested our spirit. From the abrupt end of the dreams of basketball fans in March to students graduating from their living rooms at two virtual graduations, we have valiantly sacrificed the traditions and the human interactions that truly define the UD sense of community.

The fall semester also saw the tragic passing of three vital, vibrant members of our student body and beloved members of our faculty, staff, and extended Flyer family — each a treasure in their friendship, their accomplishments, and their promise. We celebrate their lives as we mourn their loss.

Still, in the face of sacrifice and tragedy, the University of Dayton family has held together, supported each other, and kept the faith that times would turn.

Now, as we enter the heart of the Christmas season, a period in which we marvel at God’s sacrifice and the pure love of the Christ child, we see on the horizon real signs of hope. While the coronavirus vaccine will likely not be plentiful enough soon enough to have a significant impact this winter, human ingenuity, the marvels of scientific advances and efficient logistics — and, above all else, faith —make clear that the summer and next fall will truly be different.

"…for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn."

On behalf of my whole family, Karen and our children Kaitlyn and Emery, I wish you all the best for a joyous Christmas, one that brings to mind and keeps in your heart that Holy Night from so many centuries ago. May your New Year be filled with good health and the greatest gifts of all — faith, hope, and love.

With God's grace and blessings,

Eric F. Spina
President