April 16, 2009 -- Day Brightener

Colleagues,

In the midst of challenging times, we may need reminders of the many positives all around us.  You, of course, are all around me and I am regularly reminded of your surrounding excellence.  I meet with so many people -- students, parents, alumni, employers, community members, donors, elected officials -- and they consistently report the most favorable impressions of our university, usually citing direct, personal, "hands on" evidence.

Lately, I seem to be receiving an unusual number of unsolicited emails from people so pleased with what you are all doing.  Makes my day brighter.  But, then, I have nothing to do with it; you, those responsible, are the ones who need to hear.  Yesterday, I got a message that really brightened my day.  So, I thought I would pass it along to you, the more appropriate recipients, hoping it would do the same for you.

With the permission of the sender and words slightly altered to protect confidentiality, that unsolicited message said:

Sir,

I just wanted to send a personal thank you note for the outstanding faculty and staff you are leading at WWU.  My daughter <name deleted> is taking advanced honors level courses and is consistently getting high grades (all A`s and B`s).  Her academic success is a direct reflection of your staff`s tremendous dedication and skilled professionalism.  I could not be more pleased with WWU.  Since I will be soon be deploying aboard the <ship name deleted> this August for a 24 month assignment, it is comfortable knowing my daughter is in good hands.  Thank you again …

I add my thanks, as well.  We really are a premier university; we will continue to be; and the payoff is demonstrably evident in the experiences of our students, the accomplishments of our alumni, and the vitality of our state.

Bruce