Back Together, Better Than Normal

“We are united in resilience. We are united in our determination not only to survive, but to thrive in every season.”

We’ve all likely heard the statement, “I’ll be happy when life returns to normal.” And lately “the new normal” is a phrase often used to describe a world that is trying to move forward while facing ongoing challenges of a global pandemic.

“Normal” is a term that I’ve made peace with leaving behind. Leading a university in current times has become an exercise in letting go of the fear of the unknown. It’s cliché, at this point, to say that life as we knew it in 2019 “P.C.” (pre-COVID-19) will probably never return. Like the rest of the world, Park University has had to adapt — quickly — to new ways of working, living and learning. Though none of it has been easy, all of it has been made easier because of the leadership, talent and sheer will of those around me who give everything to ensure Park’s continued success.

I am amazed by the brave determination of Park’s faculty members, who, through it all, champion our mission to transform lives through accessible, student-centered, quality higher education. Their inspired brilliance has been the stabilizing force in our ability to persevere. I remain in awe of Park’s staff who have kept Park competitive in a time when many other institutions scrambled to keep pace with formidable change.

But most importantly, our students and alumni inspire me daily. Park’s best and brightest have stuck it out and have shown up to class and in the world in courageous ways. In the pages to follow, you’ll see exactly what I mean.

In 2020, we declared ourselves to be “Park United” as a university community. This new way of describing ourselves could not have been better timed. We are united in resilience. We are united in our determination not only to survive, but to thrive in every season. We are united in building a bridge toward the future through new program offerings, new methods of educating and a beautiful new facility — the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center and School of Business — that will prepare students for a competitive job market.

In this issue of Park Magazine, you will read compelling stories of alumni who have used their Park education to make a meaningful difference in the world. You will also discover some amazing Park accomplishments in the classroom, in our athletics programs and on the classical music stage. We can all be proud of Park students, faculty, staff and alumni who strive for excellence in their academic and professional pursuits.

We are “Park Reunited” and it feels better than good. It feels better than normal. In fact, it feels better than ever.

In gratitude,

Shane B. Smeed

President

Park University