Thank You

Finals week at UMKC! It is funny how much we look forward to the end of the year, and then on Monday, start planning for the next. In an academic year filled with “crazy” student behavior and tragedy, Commencement and for my housing peeps – Residence Hall closings provide some sense of “whew, we and THEY made it.”

It is a tremendous feeling to watch a student that started out rough on their journey reach the pinnacle of college graduation. Thinking maybe, just maybe we had something to do with keeping them on the right track. I’m so excited for those students, and more excited because many are now contemplating careers in student affairs. This is clearly a result of the commitment by the full-time and graduate staff on campus to make a difference in those lives.

As you all wrap up your semesters, I encourage you to take a moment reflect on the differences you have made for students and for each other. I know that I could not have made it through the year (heck, the last couple of days) without the support and friendship of so many of you. So please accept this as a big thank you for all you do for your students, NASPA, and me.

Congratulations! And I hope your commencements happen soon!