Letter from the Dean August 2018

Dear Families,

When I was a student my favorite time of year was always autumn. Whether in grade school or in graduate school, there was always something a little magical about those last lingering days of summer which slowly - but surely - gave way to cooler evenings and crisper nights.

I still feel that buzz - not only in my role as professor of sociology, but also in my roles as the South House Professor and Interim Dean of the College. It is from all of these places that I welcome your students back to campus to explore their interests and passions and to create and renew friendships and relationships with students, faculty and staff in the classroom, within their housing communities, and through their co-curricular activities.

The House Communities are now entering their third year. My colleagues Sergi Elizalde, Ryan Hickox, Janice McCabe, Craig Sutton, Melanie Taylor, Dennis Washburn, and all of our House-affiliated faculty and staff are excited to welcome new and returning students to their communities. As we anticipate a vibrant year of House dinners, speakers, intramurals and House Cup competitions, arts and cultural activities, field trips and social impact projects, we also look forward to the planning process for a new 350-bed residence hall. The College is considering three possible locations for the new facility, which will provide much-needed "swing space" for renovations of our older residence halls. We'll have more news about those plans in the year ahead.

With the end of sophomore summer upon us and students beginning to arrive for pre-fall activities this week, Student Affairs staff are fully engaged and committed to supporting your students. Please don't hesitate to be in touch if we can be of assistance.

With best wishes,

Kathryn Lively

Interim Dean of the College