The (2010s)
C S E PUNN M O A C (C
) N O I T
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IN THIS (ISSUE) News from your class agent News From Your Class Agent 1 What’s New With You? 2 Alumnae Share Culture Shock 2 25 Years of Graduate Education 2 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees 3 Inauguration Date Announced 3 Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Eick 3 Spring Alumni Events 4 From the Desk of Lisa Tilma 4
Michael Clifford, G’11 2010s Class Agent clifford@friends.edu You are invited to the inauguration of President Dr. T.J. Arant.
Life sure changes after walking across the stage at Commencement. I have had the privilege of staying at Friends University as a staff member since I graduated in May 2011, and I can tell you in full confidence, I enjoyed finals time much more last semester since I didn’t have any! I enjoyed watching as our fantastic choirs performed in the Christmas Candlelight Concert, the fall sports teams wound down and winter sports booted up for their seasons. It was a wonderful sight to see the Christmas trees lit up across Rose Window Plaza with festive colors and student club paraphernalia. Despite being less than a year removed from being an undergraduate student, it is clear to see what an amazing opportunity these current students have to learn, grow, and find out what kind of person they are going to be. What stands out to me is how much it means to a student when someone, maybe a professor, coach, or another student, chooses to care about their life. Sometimes it is in very small ways but it seems to make all the difference.
As we are now starting new jobs, going to graduate school or starting families, we have an incredible opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those around us. It can be as simple as a genuine smile or telling someone “I hope you have a great day!” One of the great things about this class letter is that it gives us an opportunity to stay connected to one another, celebrate each other’s successes and even offer words of encouragement or prayer for those who may need it. I encourage you to let me know what you have been doing since you attended and / or earned your degree from Friends University. I would love to be able to share your news with all our fellow 2010s alumni. You are always welcome to send me an email or you can even fill out the form on the top of page 2 and send it to the Alumni Office. They will make sure I receive your news. I hope you have a wonderful day and find ways to change the world, one small gesture at a time.