PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Dear Cardinal Alumni and Friends:

Over the last 10 months, I have fallen in love with North Central College — the mission, the people and the future possibilities. So, as my interim year comes to an end, it would be difficult to let go if not for the fact that I have great confidence in the person of Presidentelect Anita Thomas. Together, we promise you a smooth and hopeful transition in leadership.

This magazine begins to introduce you to Dr. Thomas — the administrator, scholar, teacher and clinician. I encourage you to read beyond her substantial credentials, however, to see the joy expressed by students, faculty and staff in response to her appointment. Campus enthusiasm has been immediate, wholehearted and contagious. I cannot wait for you to meet her!

In the meantime, let me note a few other magazine highlights. There is good academic balance in this issue, showcasing the range of North

Central disciplines and pedagogies. Regarding athletics, it is hard not to be proud of three national championships — in triathlon, football and women’s wrestling! And, clearly, I am not the only one who loves North Central College — as quotes from students, faculty, staff and alumni demonstrate.

By the time you receive this issue, we will have celebrated Commencement, and we hope to be well into recruiting students for our new Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program — which is slated to launch this fall, pending Higher Learning Commission (HLC) approval. By August, construction will be underway on a new parking pavilion on the south end of campus. There is no better way to welcome a new president than with a busy summer!

It has been my joy to share this year with you. Go Cardinals!

Donna

Donna M. Carroll Interim President