President's Blog: From the Heart

By Eric F. Spina

("'Community' is part of our DNA at the University of Dayton. It’s a way of life. It’s a shared vision. It’s a commitment we make to one another," I wrote to students, faculty, and staff in my welcome message on the opening day of the academic year.)

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,

Welcome home, Flyers!

Today, on the first day of classes, I wish each of you a strong start to the academic year. Over the last few days I’ve interacted with literally hundreds of students — during move-in, walks around campus and the student neighborhood, and new student orientation activities. Everywhere I went I felt a sense of vibrancy, energy, hopefulness — and possibility.

As I shared with incoming students and their families at the New Student Convocation on Saturday, “community” is part of our DNA at the University of Dayton. It’s a way of life. It’s a shared vision. It’s a commitment we make to one another.

I ask you to take that commitment to heart and care for one another as you would a family member. While we’ve eased some campus health protocols, we all must do our part to build immunity in our community. We continue to highly encourage those who are not vaccinated to do so to optimize the health and safety of all.

As a community, we are embarking on an academic journey of great purpose and aspiration together. I wish everyone an outstanding year, one filled with joy and promise.

May God’s grace be with each of you.

Warm regards,

Eric F. Spina
President