Dear Colleagues,

We are in the final weeks of the semester. The warmer temperatures have welcomed our students back to Samford Lawn to study and to unwind, where I suspect many will gather next week to observe the solar eclipse. 
 

In just over a month, we will celebrate the remarkable journey of over 5,000 graduates during our spring commencement ceremonies from May 3-6. Commencement transcends the mere awarding of degrees; it also celebrates the resilience, growth, and achievements of our extraordinary graduates. Along with our students, we are preparing to welcome thousands of families and friends, as well as our distinguished commencement speakers, Kirsty Coventry and Phillip McWane. Kirsty, a seven-time Olympic medalist and alumna of the College of Human Sciences, will share her wisdom along with Phillip, an industry leader and Harbert College of Business graduate. I am confident that their unique life experiences and shared love of Auburn will resonate with our students.

Among the cherished traditions of our graduation ceremonies is the recognition of our students graduating with academic honors. As we applaud those graduating with honors, we recognize those selected for induction into several prestigious honor societies, including Phi Beta Kappa. This year holds special significance for our spring graduates; it marks the 20th anniversary of Auburn's chapter which is a testament to the strength of our faculty and to our students' enduring legacy of excellence.

Additionally, we are in the home stretch of our academic leadership searches. I extend my gratitude to all who have contributed to the search processes for our new deans and the director of the Honors College—decisions that hold immense importance for our institution's future. In the coming weeks, I anticipate announcing our new leaders, who will join us on campus this fall.

Also, this fall, we will celebrate the remarkable achievements of our esteemed faculty colleagues who were awarded promotion and tenure this semester. Their dedication to instruction, research and scholarship, and outreach has left an indelible mark on our institution. I am pleased to share the list of this year's recipients—a group whose impact continues to resonate across our campus.

Amidst these transitions, we recognize the implications posed by Senate Bill 129. We remain committed to meaningful conversations that help us navigate these changes while ensuring our adherence to the law. In my recent discussions with colleagues, their care and dedication to our institution’s values have been evident as we reaffirm our core principles and priorities.

I wish you the best of luck as we enter the final weeks of the semester.