President's Blog: From the Heart : University of Dayton, Ohio

Recent Posts

President January 19, 2023

A Man for Our Times

When the Rev. Peter Matthews asked me to talk to people in the pews at McKinley United Methodist Church on the eve of MLK Day, I initially hesitated.

President January 11, 2023

Be Uncommon

I sat among colleagues at the 2023 Learning Teaching Forum and listened with rapt attention to Dr. Karlos Marshall as he shared his deeply personal educational journey and offered lessons for bringing out the best in every University of Dayton student.

Experiential Learning January 09, 2023

A Healthy Partnership

As an anchor institution, we pride ourselves on developing mutually beneficial partnerships in the community, but the one with Premier Health stands tall in my mind. As neighbors, we share a special bond that goes beyond proximity to philosophy.

President December 24, 2022

The Wonder and Faith of a Child

"I wish you the miracle of Christmas," University of Dayton President Eric F. Spina wrote to the campus community in his annual message. "The story of Christ's birth — and the way we give of ourselves to others in return — bring hope to our world."

President December 21, 2022

Hands-On Learning

At the beginning of the semester Professor Kim Bigelow and Rachel Zidaroff, director of operations for United Rehabilitation Services (URS), gave four mechanical engineering students a modest $1,500 budget and a challenge — create a prototype of a portable device that would help people with limited motor skills take their work gloves on and off by themselves using just one hand.

Students December 17, 2022

The Challenge of Change

"Some people are book-smart, but lack empathy, kindness and mercy. You cannot go about transforming the world — which is ultimately your assignment when you leave today — without both," President Eric Spina told the Class of 2022 at winter commencement. "As Flyers, you’re called to use your minds and hearts to work across disciplines and differences to make the kind of profound change the world needs."

President December 13, 2022

Miracle on UD Street

As 33 school buses rolled into parking lot C with 1,100 children on Dec. 8, my heart leaped for joy at the familiar sight. Christmas on Campus, now in its 59^th year, was back in all its glory, and you could feel the euphoria. This year's theme could not have been more perfect: "Miracle on UD Street."

December 09, 2022

Forever Linked

A small but sturdy silver link hangs from my keychain, a gift from Flyer football coach Rick Chamberlin. In a tradition he carried over from his predecessor Mike Kelly, Rick gave everyone who ever played for him a link to remind them they’re forever connected to the program and each other.

November 22, 2022

Gathering Around the Table

"I'm so grateful for the gifts each of you brings to our campus as we strive to be a University that welcomes all around the table," University of Dayton President Eric Spina wrote in his Thanksgiving message to the campus community.

President November 15, 2022

Wind Beneath Their Wings

During Sunday’s scholarship brunch, I marveled at Daisha Williams' poise, confidence — and ease in articulating why investing in students pays dividends.