("Let’s do what we do best as a Catholic, Marianist university. Let’s build community," Eric F. Spina, president of the University of Dayton, urged students, faculty and staff in his welcome message as the academic year kicked off.)
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,
Welcome home, Flyers! I’m so energized by the prospect of a new semester and hope that you are also renewed and ready to discover all the rich possibilities that this academic year holds.
For the Class of 2028, you are starting a journey that will change you forever. Your professors will encourage and mentor you — and dare you to dream big and work to achieve the extraordinary. We know that you can achieve your aspirations at UD, navigating challenges and celebrating successes with your faculty and staff mentors.
For our newly hired faculty and staff, you are part of a strong campus community that supports and challenges one another. We treasure the gifts you bring to our shared work.
For all in our campus community, let’s do what we do best as a Catholic, Marianist university. Let’s build community.
As we navigate through divisive times in our society and enter a contentious election season, I believe the University of Dayton can — and must — be a model for respectful civil discourse. Our expectations — as spelled out in our “Commitment to Community” principles and habits — are that you will make room for differences and engage in productive dialogue, no matter the range of political views we may each hold. You will always treat each other as children of God — deserving of dignity and respect.
I wish you an outstanding year, one filled with joy and promise. May God’s grace be with each of you.
Warm regards,
Eric F. Spina
President