FROM THE PRESIDENT

DEAR OLD NORTH COMMUNITY,

As I approached Old North this sunny, autumn afternoon, I was intrigued to see a group of people greeting a steadily growing line of cars as they drove up to the front of the Education building. As each car reached the front of the line, they were greeted by what now was clearly a group of faculty and staff, some robed in regalia, ready with cords and stoles to place around the necks of deserving graduates. A UCO photographer was poised to capture a picture as each graduate received their honor from their car seat. COVID-19 had squelched another series of commencement ceremonies to be attended by faculty, staff, friends and family. When imagining our students crossing the threshold of this important moment in their lives without the ceremonial closing to their achievement, these individuals had resolved to manifest a meaningful and simple celebration in a parking lot, with a folding table, with the smell of car exhaust. They crafted this moment out of determination, just as our students have done this year.

In a year of expansive disruption, we reevaluated our approach, impact and capacity to build the framework for innovation and progress. We embraced a new identity, as we adapted the way we taught and served to meet our new reality. Crises have a way of magnifying what lies at your core and the pandemic called us toward the best version of ourselves.

UCO has continued to innovate in the development of four new fully online programs this year, bringing our total online program offerings to 16. Additionally, UCO is leading the way in the state as we add six new micro-credentials to our catalog, with plans for dozens more in the near future. These are elements of our deliberate efforts to apply the best of what we do to advance our metro and state.

Our campus community has embarked on a reflective journey this year that will result in our first-ever Inclusive Community Strategic Plan. The systems and structures that shape the identity of our community are being explored for ways to create opportunity through equity. In continued commitment to cultural competency, we will work to foster positive changes that enhance the spectrum of diversity on campus and reflect the people we aim to serve.

The pioneering spirit of our university founders permeates the vision of this institution. We have inherited their hopes, dreams and belief that we can shape our future. Our passion and persistence have developed our resilience. Our people have developed our inspiration. The stories you will read in this edition of Old North will remind you of the value of community and call you to find your place within it. We are a community of hope. I invite you to join us.

Best wishes to you,

Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar President