Convocation Remarks (September 17, 2008)

Cyndie joins me in offering a warm welcome to you all. We have been simply overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of the welcome we have received. And for those others here today who also are just joining us, we hope you have received the same great welcome. We hope you are as excited as Cyndie and I are to be a part of Western.

Now, I have to report that, wherever we have gone as we are getting to know the state, the weather has been spectacular. And, predictably, we hear those we are meeting observe, "Oh, the weather is always like this."

Hmmm, … Our friends in Green Bay approached the topic of Bellingham weather somewhat differently. They would say, "You know, it rains a lot out there."

To that I would simply reply, "Yes, but you don't have to shovel it."

We are delighted to be in Bellingham, serving Western Washington University, and to be here with you this morning to start a new academic year. I just love the rhythms of academic life. Always have. I vividly recall that first night before the opening of the term where I, brand new assistant professor, hardly slept. Same last night. Same every opening session in between. The excitement of a new beginning. And, for Cyndie and me, a new beginning in several senses.

That is what I am going to talk about. I am dispensing with the usual formula for such occasions: remembering the highlights of the year past, identifying opportunities and challenges for the year ahead. I will be emphasizing our future together.

First, though, I want to express my sincere appreciation to those who arranged the event:

• John Dlouhy, Mackenzie Boetes and Renee Redekop from Special Events
• Staff of the Viking Union and Sodexo food services
• and Buff Schoenfeld who took the lead in my office

We asked them to plan a gathering where we could all start the term together. They responded, quickly arranging this event.

We are in this together. Together — that is how we are best able to succeed, to most effectively advance our shared calling. And, that is how we are most likely to have fun along the way.

A big thanks to you, all of you, over 900 who adjusted your schedules to be here. In these busy days, I know that is asking a lot. Your attending is much appreciated.

Now, I said I would be discussing our future. But of course an academic can never look to the future without first looking back.

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