Dear WPU Community,
September is synonymous with “back to school” – for all of you who have students in your life, or are remembering your own time as a student perhaps at WPU, I know you join me in feeling the excitement and gravity of a new academic year.
I have always been energized by the start of a new academic year—the joy I receive from welcoming new and returning students pursuing their journeys at WPU; the pride I take in faculty and staff who are preparing their first lectures of the semester; the fun I have in meeting students and parents of our incoming class. I was so pleased to officially welcome our new and returning students at Warner Pacific and this month’s Opening Convocation, a deeply meaningful tradition we hold at WPU to ask the Lord’s blessings on our students’ forthcoming journey to achieve their goals and pursue their calling. (You can read about this tradition, as well as our Knights’ Pledge in the lead story in this month’s e-newsletter.)
The new year launches a new beginning for our faculty and staff as well. This year we embark on our new Strategic Planning process—an important examination of mission, vision and values that allows us to chart the future growth of the university. A team of staff and faculty are working with our Board of Trustees to take a deeper look at key areas such as Growing our Mission; Strengthening Academics; Supporting Enrollment & Student Success; Planning for Future Campus Facilities; and Communicating with, and Inspiring, Our Communities. We ask for your ongoing prayers as we engage in this exciting work. Your support is key to our ability to serve!
From whatever vantage it is you are beginning this academic year, I hope this month fully blesses you with opportunities to learn, grow, and enjoy all the wonderful things happening in and around WPU!
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
In His Service,
