Marquette always feels a bit lonely when students are on break. We staff and faculty who have been back on campus for a few weeks are used to seeing you in our walkways, residence halls, classrooms and dining spaces — you bring boundless energy and positive possibility to each day.
It is the same positive energy that first drew me to work with university students in 1992 as a graduate student. That energy animates me still, as my colleagues and I prepare for the spring 2019 semester.
A new year and a new semester are natural times for reflection and discernment. Whether you have made a traditional resolution or are simply mapping out how to find success and fulfillment these next few months, I urge you to take some time to be thoughtful about the impact you are having — on your friends, family and on Marquette. Think about the footprint you hope to leave once you graduate and how you will continue to “Be the Difference.”
As always, the spring semester brings many exciting opportunities. Consider getting involved the following events and programs on campus:
- Presidential Address, Jan. 23
All Marquette students are encouraged to attend the Presidential Address on Wednesday, Jan. 23, at 3 p.m. in the AMU, Monaghan Ballroom. President Lovell will discuss the state of the university, provide an update on the strategic plan and highlight Difference Makers — Marquette faculty, staff and students doing remarkable things in our community. More information is online. - Marquette Forum, Jan. 23
The Marquette Forum is a yearlong series of events focusing on civic dialogue and the state of democracies across the world. Immediately before the Presidential Address on Jan. 23, the Forum will host a discussion with Anna Clark, author of “The Poisoned City: Flint’s Water and the American Urban Tragedy.” More information and registration are available online. - Mission Week, Feb. 4-10
The Marquette community is invited to celebrate Mission Week 2019 by embracing its theme, “Open to your life’s purpose.” Throughout the week, inspirational speakers will be on campus and there will be various opportunities for service, prayer, reflection and worship. Mission Week is sponsored by the Office of Mission and Ministry and CM Cares. More information is online. - National Marquette Day, Feb. 9
Following Mission Week, National Marquette Day will be Saturday, Feb. 9. For more than 25 years, this global celebration gathers the Marquette nation united together in pride, spirit and sport to honor the values we cherish throughout the year. More information is online. - President’s Panel on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Feb. 26
The President’s Panel will take place on Feb. 26 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Marquette Law School. All students are invited to attend. Soledad O’Brien will moderate a panel discussion with President Lovell, a student and a faculty member.
Watch Marquette Today for more information.
Please let me and my colleagues in the Division of Student Affairs know how we can assist you in meeting your semester goals. Remember: we are all Marquette!
Sincerely,
Dr. Xavier A. Cole
Vice President
Division of Student Affairs