Work of the Board of Trustees

I would like to thank everybody who played a role in preparing for last week's Board of Trustees meeting. I received positive feedback from the Trustees about their visit, and many expressed excitement with the current state of the University.

Norwich University is governed by its Board of Trustees. This active group oversees the university; participating in the decision-making and policy-making process and steering and guiding Norwich into the future. They come to campus for formal meetings twice a year, in the spring and fall.

The Board of Trustees consists of 35 men and women, who all bring a unique life experience to the process. Trustees are alumni and non-alumni who are leaders in the military, business and educational fields. Their experiences help them to develop the best processes by which to develop the military and civilian leaders of tomorrow. The board divides itself into sub-committees that focus on specific areas of the university.

In addition to conducting business during their visit, on Friday afternoon the trustees had an opportunity to watch the Corps of Cadets on the UP. The Regiment, in dress blues for the first time on parade this year, was very impressive.

Following the parade, the trustees shared in the excitement of our new facilities on campus by participating in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at South Hall and a plaque dedication on the new Class of '59 bridge. These projects represent fulfilled commitments Norwich has made to our civilian population. The bronze plaque on the bridge contains a portion of the commencement address delivered by ABC News Senior Foreign Affairs Correspondent Martha Raddatz last May. In her remarks, Raddatz encouraged all Norwich students, civilian and Corps alike, to build bridges between the military and civilian communities.

The plaque states, "Your experiences at Norwich University have prepared you to play a unique role in America because of the special friendships you forged on this campus. I urge you to share the knowledge and teamwork skills you gained at Norwich to help others appreciate and respect the patchwork of communities, civilian and military among them, that comprise the whole fabric of American society."

While these comments were made to graduating seniors, they pertain to all members of the Norwich community. Build bridges every day, and take advantage of the unique Norwich experience which offers students in both military and civilian lifestyles to work together side-by-side.

Mid-terms are behind you. Continue to make academics your top priority. Concentrate on your studies and finish the semester strong. Winter break will be here before you know it.