Dear Marquette students,
I am excited to see so many familiar faces back on campus and also welcome new ones!
I am filled with gratitude and joy to begin this school year in a much different context than last year. Certainly, it behooves us to be cautious as the pandemic is not yet over. But we do have much to celebrate and be glad about this year.
We are three months into the Ignatian Year, the 500th anniversary of when St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, was injured by a cannonball in the Battle of Pamplona, a moment that instigated a change of heart and attested to God’s constant invitation of grace to all of us at each moment. Watch for opportunities to celebrate this milestone throughout the academic year. I encourage all of you — no matter your religious and spiritual traditions — to learn about Ignatius, whose teachings offer us ways to become less hindered and more free.
Some of you are just beginning your Marquette journey, while others are continuing along the paths you began. I want to emphasize that we all play a part in the student experience — students, staff and faculty alike. We all are Marquette!
This year, the university has rolled out required diversity, equity and inclusion trainings for students, faculty and staff, which is one of many ways we’re working to create a more inclusive environment. As students, you have agency in curating what your Marquette community and experience looks like. Here are some opportunities and resources that can help you:
- Student retreats
- SilverCloud platform for healthy minds
- Recreation and wellness opportunities
- LateNight Marquette programming
Have a blessed start to your school year, and if you see me around campus, be sure to say hello. All of us in Student Affairs and our colleagues across campus are rooting for and working for your success.
We Are Marquette!
Dr. Xavier A. Cole
Vice President for Student Affairs
