Welcome home, and congratulations on making it to your first day of classes! Each of you has arrived brimming with eagerness and expectation for the journey ahead this academic year. Whether you are reconnecting with familiar faces or forging new connections, you are part of our Columbia College community—a diverse group of students, staff, and faculty brought together by their shared pursuit of knowledge, personal growth, and community success. Your decision to join us on this educational path is profoundly appreciated, and we extend to you a warm welcome.

If you are returning, you will probably notice that a lot has changed while you have been away for the summer. The most obvious of those changes is reflected in who is sending this letter. Victoria and I arrived on July 17th. Like many of you, we were equal parts excited and nervous. Now, after 39 days, only excitement remains. We are excited to meet each one of you. We are excited to cheer on our Koalas with you at home games. We are excited to see you at student events, on The Green for movie nights, at the student union for dinner, or on The Mall as you are heading to class. Of course, we will be living in Maxwell House and invite you to come by from time to time to say hello and grab a snack.

To the parents, families, and loved ones who have entrusted us with your student, I extend a heartfelt thank you. Your tireless work and dedication have laid the foundation for your student’s success, and now our journey begins as partners in their educational and career pursuits. We look forward to seeing you at Friends and Family Weekend on September 29th and 30th.

To our students, it is with unbounded enthusiasm and an unwavering commitment to your success that we now embark on this exciting chapter together. The staff, faculty, and administrators here at Columbia College will do everything within our power to provide an educational experience tailored to your needs, interests, and aspirations. Your time here will be a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment. We are here to support you every step of the way, from your first class to your graduation day.

Welcome home to Columbia College, where your aspirations are our priority, your growth is our mission, and your success is our ultimate goal. Do not hesitate to email me if you have a good idea or a question that you would like to share. My email address is president@columbiasc.edu. Victoria and I look forward to seeing you on campus!

With warm regards,