Dear Marquette students,
I am excited to see so many familiar faces back on campus and blessed to welcome new ones!
All of us in Student Affairs have been awaiting the beginning of a new school year, as the energy and excitement you bring reminds us why we truly enjoy working alongside you in your journey toward a transformative education in our Catholic, Jesuit tradition.
I feel gratitude and joy as we begin our school year amid a very different point in the pandemic. I am so proud of how our community came together to help protect our health and safety over the past two years. However, it’s important that we remain cautious and mindful of our physical and mental well-being as the slowing pandemic remains. Thankfully, we do have much to celebrate this year with more freedom to gather in community.
I encourage all of you to lean into opportunities to engage with each other — in classes, at Marquette athletic events, in worship and in service to our community. And Milwaukee’s lovely weather offers plenty to do outdoors, so let’s seize this moment before winter settles in!
Our annual fall O-Fest on Sept. 7 is a great opportunity to discover ways to get involved in clubs and organizations beyond the classroom. Don’t hesitate to get involved and meet new people — we are a caring and welcoming community at Marquette! Just remember to be your authentic selves, treat others with kindness and respect, and truly value this special time in your lives.
Whether you are just beginning your Marquette journey or already on your way, please know that we all play a part in your student experience — students, staff and faculty alike. We all are Marquette!
In that spirit, here are some opportunities and resources to help you:
- Student retreats
- SilverCloud platform for healthy minds
- Recreation and wellness opportunities
- For our newest students, here is a helpful Student Success checklist for navigating your first two weeks.
Have a blessed start to your school year, and if you see me around campus, be sure to say hello — I will do the same! All of us in Student Affairs and our colleagues across campus are rooting for your success.
Dr. Xavier A. Cole
Vice president for student affairs
