President's Blog: From the Heart

By Eric F. Spina

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,

Welcome home, Flyers!

With the return of students and faculty, the campus is alive with an infectious energy, joy — and a little nervous anticipation that accompanies the first day of classes.

When I welcomed new students and their families this weekend, I urged our first-year students to dream big, savor the moments inside and outside the classroom — and always stop and hold a door open for each other. At UD, we hold the door for one another — literally and metaphorically — because we are a community.

It’s a community of challenge and support, grounded in our Catholic, Marianist values. In these times of uncertainty and divisiveness, I urge you to take time to silence your mind and seek deeper truths. Be mindful of what brings you strength and solace as you pay attention to the health and wellbeing of others in our community. Whether you’re a student or a professor, a researcher or a groundskeeper, your health and wellbeing are important — vitally important — to our collective success. Please take advantage of the numerous resources, from peer health coaches for students to the wellness program for faculty and staff, to create and sustain our strong, supportive campus community.

I wish you an outstanding year. May the possibilities you hold in your hearts today carry you forward in the days ahead, and may God’s grace always be with each of you.

Warm regards,

Eric F. Spina
President