Letter from the President

New Beginnings

Now in my second academic year at the University of Redlands, I remain excited about the opportunities ahead. You will notice the theme “New Beginnings” throughout the pages of this issue, reminding me of the Winston Churchill quote, “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” It is a great time to be a Bulldog, and I am excited to share many exciting initiatives taking place in our campus community.

Recently, I had the opportunity to take one of the first rides on the new Arrow Rail line, which has stops throughout the City of Redlands, and further connects to Los Angeles. I continue to marvel at the opportunities the train will provide our entire University community. If you plan to be in town anytime soon, I highly recommend using the train to get around.

Closely tied to the Arrow Rail line is our future University Village project. Since my first day, this project has been one of my highest priorities. I remain inspired by the vision and significant fiscal and economic impacts it will bring to our University and the entire region. I was honored to recently welcome state Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh and Assemblymember James Ramos, who collectively brought $10 million in funding to support the significant investment into infrastructure improvements. I thank them both for their steadfast support and work to bring this vital funding to our community.

I am also excited to share that we’ve made significant progress on the University’s new strategic plan, which includes our enhanced mission, vision, and value statements. It has been an amazing experience meeting with all our students, faculty, and staff and working together to articulate the future of the University of Redlands. Look for more updates in 2023 as we finalize the strategic plan.

In other exciting news, we welcomed the University’s newest mascot, George Willis. Since his arrival, George has been warming hearts and bringing a smile to everyone who meets him. More than a cute face, you will find him all over campus, meeting with potential students in the Admissions office or providing comfort to anyone who needs a hug in our Counseling Center. Make sure to visit pages 30 to see him in action at his recent “Indoguaration.”

I’d like to thank Pam Verosik ʼ10 for allowing us a peek into her amazing story of perseverance as she obtained her undergraduate degree at the University of Redlands while working full-time in the Registrar’s Office. Additionally, the accomplishments of our students never cease to amaze me. You’ll see on page 5 a student in our Master of Music in Vocal Chamber Music program recently won a Grammy for his recording of Mahler’s Symphony Number 8. Congratulations, Manu!

This issue also previews the rare book collection housed at our Marin Campus. This collection contains over 6,700 books dating back to 1455 and a gold leaf from the Gutenberg Bible. I hope you enjoy reading about the recent grant awarded to the San Francisco Theological Seminary/ Graduate School of Theology to further study and preserve this collection.

By the time you receive this issue of Och Tamale, we will be nearing the end of 2022, ready for a fresh start in the new year. I am amazed at our accomplishments and remain focused on our bright future, full of new opportunities and new beginnings. I hope you all a have wonderful holiday season and well wishes for a Happy New Year.

Go Bulldogs!

Krista L. Newkirk