President’s Letters, Speeches, & Correspondence

Dear Lawrentians:  

Welcome back, and Happy New Year. I hope each of you found time over the break to rest, reconnect, and recharge. As we step into a new term together, I am reminded once again of the strength, compassion, and resilience that define our community. It is a joy to see campus come alive with your energy and purpose.   

While many Lawrentians leveraged the break for rest and relaxation, December was nevertheless a vibrant period of learning and exploration through D-Term. Thank you to all who participated, taught, or supported these immersive experiences! A special congratulations goes to Kim Dickson, Associated Professor of Biology, for her innovative Exploring Biotechnology course, which offered students a remarkable hands-on opportunity to engage with emerging scientific tools and ideas. We were also incredibly fortunate to have an alumni-led D-term class this year. Timothy Anne Burnside ’02, who serves as the Curator of Music & Performing Arts at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., led a Museums in D.C. course. This exciting immersion course allowed students to connect their classroom learning to applied experiences in museum curation and exhibition development at various museums in our nation’s capital.    

Our faculty and staff also continue to shine in their scholarly and creative pursuits. I am delighted to congratulate Anna Beno and the Corporate, Foundation, and Sponsored Research team for partnering with faculty members Elizabeth Becker (Neuroscience), Allison Fleshman (Chemistry), Dominica Chang (French and Francophone Studies), Lucero Estrella (Ethnic Studies), Copeland Woodruff (Opera), and Margaret Koker (Physics) to secure nearly $40,000 in support of faculty research and equipment in November and December. This work strengthens our academic mission and continues to expand opportunities for our students.

The Winter and Spring terms will also see the next installments of our Creator-in-Residence program. This year marks the second year of this exciting series, following Robert Battle’s inaugural appointment to the Creator-in-Residence position last year. Patricia Smith, who graced the stage of Memorial Chapel with a captivating Winter Convocation last January, will return to campus for a series of creative engagements. More information on the upcoming Creator-in-Residence will be forthcoming over the next several weeks.   

I am also deeply excited to announce a campus visit by Audra McDonald on April 10. Audra McDonald is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry, as both a singer and an actor. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards, and an Emmy Award, she was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2015 and received a 2015 National Medal of Arts—America’s highest honor for achievement in the arts—from President Barack Obama. Blessed with a luminous soprano and an incomparable gift for dramatic truth-telling, she is as much at home on Broadway and opera stages as she is in roles on film and television. In addition to her theatrical work, she maintains a major career as a concert and recording artist, regularly appearing on the great stages of the world. I will moderate a conversation on “The Art of Leadership” with Audra in Memorial Chapel. Tickets will be made available through the Conservatory’s box office in the coming weeks.    

Please also join me in celebrating Emma Perry ’26, who was recognized with the Rising Star Award at the Marquette Invitational Pitch Contest. Emma’s achievement reflects the innovation, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit that so many of our students bring to their work.   

As we begin this new term, I want to acknowledge the turmoil and suffering unfolding in many parts of the nation, and the world. These events weigh heavily on our hearts. In times like these, our commitment to supporting one another—through kindness, empathy, and open dialogue—matters more than ever. Let us continue to care for each other and uphold the values that make Lawrence a beacon of hope and belonging.   

I am grateful for each of you and excited for all we will accomplish together in the months ahead. 

Best,

Laurie A. Carter,

President

Dear Lawrentians:

As we approach the end of the fall term, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for each member of our Lawrence community. This has been a season marked by hard work, creativity, compassion, and collective strength. As we look ahead to the holiday break, I hope you’ll give yourselves the gift of rest and restoration—you’ve earned it.

Our campus has been energized by remarkable achievements this month. Our Symphonic Wind Ensemble delivered an incredible performance that filled Memorial Chapel with power and joy, and our students in Opera Scenes offered a captivating evening of music and storytelling. I also want to extend heartfelt congratulations to Copeland Woodruff, Mary and Michael Jaharis Director of Opera Studies and Associate Professor of Music, and the entire cast and crew of Cendrillon & Alice Tierney, which was recently awarded 3rd place in the 2025 American Prize in Opera Performance. This national recognition is a testament to their artistry, dedication, and collaborative spirit.

We also celebrate David McGlynn, Professor of English, who will give a reading from his new book and debut novel Everything We Could Do at Boswell Book Company in Milwaukee on December 3. His work continues to elevate Lawrence’s presence in the literary world, and we are proud to support his latest accomplishment. Congratulations!

In the classroom and beyond, achievement and innovation continue to flourish. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Makerspace, a creative hub that has empowered students across disciplines to imagine, experiment, and build. A special thanks to Angela Vanden Elzen, who has not only faithfully stewarded the Makerspace these past many years, but who pioneered the development of this valuable campus resource.

A more recent campus facility is earning accolades as well! Lawrence University and the Trout Museum of Art were nominated for the Downtown Appleton “Dreamers and Doers Award” for our joint development of West Campus. This award recognizes a business, organization or individual who has significantly enhanced the physical or economic landscape of downtown Appleton. While we have always known the incredible impact that West Campus would have on our campus community, it is deeply meaningful and affirming to see that impact transcend the boundaries of campus and have such a marked effect on the greater downtown community. The winners of the Appleton Downtown awards will be announced on December 2. 

We are also celebrating an extraordinary act of generosity: a real estate gift in City Center East valued at $2.4 million. This transformative gift will allow Lawrence to continue elevating the student experience, ensuring our students learn and thrive in cutting-edge facilities that support them throughout their Lawrence journey. It also deepens our commitment to the downtown corridor and cements a renewed chapter of campus and community engagement. 

Our Vikings have given us much to cheer about this term. Winter Athletics is off to a strong start, and our teams are competing with determination and heart. A special belated congratulations to Women’s Volleyball, which smashed the program’s single-season win record earlier this fall—a testament to their skill, teamwork, and resilience—and to Men’s Cross Country, who won the Midwest Conference Championship for the second time in four years, as well as to Coaches Jason Fast and Shelby Baldwin, who were recognized as “Coaching Staff of the Year”!

Finally, I want to wish all our students the very best in your finals this week. You have worked incredibly hard this term, and I know you will finish strong. Please remember to take care of yourselves and one another during this busy time.

And as we head into the holiday season, may you find time for gratitude, connection, and renewal. I look forward to welcoming you back to campus refreshed and ready for a meaningful winter term.

Warm wishes,​

Laurie A. Carter
President

Dear Lawrentians:

It has been an extraordinary month of connection, celebration, and reflection at Lawrence. From Björklunden to the Fox Cities, our campus community has come together to honor our history, strengthen our bonds, and chart an exciting course for the future.   

Earlier this month, I joined members of the Board of Trustees and the Executive Team for the Board’s triennial fall meeting at Björklunden, where we welcomed five new term trustees to the board: Daniel Flaherty, Jeffrey Fox ’72, Kathi Seifert, Heidi Ling ’83, and Andrew Wong ’06. The board spent their time at Björklunden reviewing trends in the higher education sector and affirming their commitment to strategic governance and responsible stewardship of the university.    

Immediately following the Board meetings, we launched into Blue and White Homecoming Weekend, the fall meetings of the Lawrence University Alumni Association Board of Directors, and the President’s Advisory Council, bringing together students, alumni, families, and friends to celebrate all things Lawrence. The weekend included a joyful Greek Life reunion and the induction of new members into the Vikings Athletics Hall of Fame, honoring those who have made lasting contributions to our athletic legacy.    

Blue and White Weekend also showcased incredible performances in the Conservatory. The Grammy-winning Harlem Quartet, whose fresh approach to classical music electrified Harper Hall, offered a dynamic performance that blended a classical range with jazz, Latin, and contemporary sound—a demonstration of multidimensionality that perfectly reflects the Lawrentian way. And on Saturday night, our very own Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band closed out the weekend’s celebrations in spectacular fashion.    

I extend heartfelt thanks to all those whose enthusiasm and hard work made these gatherings such a success.   

I’m proud to share that U.S. News & World Report has once again named Lawrence Wisconsin’s #1 small, private liberal arts college. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff, the curiosity of our students, the enduring loyalty of our alumni, the innovative ways we support students’ academic experience, and the deep generosity of our supporters.    

Faculty like Peter Glick, Professor of Psychology, who was recently recognized with the 2025 Application of Personality and Social Psychology award by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology. This award honors a senior psychologist in the field who has significantly advanced the understanding of important practical problems throughout their career. Congratulations, Peter, for this well-deserved celebration of your influential and impactful research.    

Or staff like Jacklyn John Fisher, who reimagined academic advising at Lawrence over the last few years and was recently promoted to Assistant Vice President of Student Success. In this role, Jacklyn will partner closely with colleagues across Academic Affairs, Student Life, and Enrollment to ensure Lawrence cultivates an environment where all our students can flourish, academically and socially.   

Or students like the Viking Clarinet Ensemble, led by Andy Hudson, Associate Professor of Music, who were invited to perform at the Wisconsin Music Educator’s Conference, or the student athletes on the Men’s Cross Country team, who—for the first time in program history!—earned a spot in the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Association Regional Rankings earlier this month. Go Vikings!   

Or spaces like the new Seeley G. Mudd Library Music Lab that will open to all Lawrentians on November 6. The Library Music Lab is a space for our campus community to explore, create, and connect through music, and will feature two Mac workstations, a full-size Yamaha digital piano, a large format flatbed scanner for uploading music scores, and a fully equipped listening station.    

Or alumni like Dr. Karen Park ‘91, the upcoming guest lecturer in the Povolny Lecture Series in International Studies on November 3. Dr. Park’s research explores how communities construct meaning through religious practice. Welcome back to campus, Dr. Park!    

The transformative experience that a Lawrence education provides—relationships with world-class researchers, scholars, and teachers; a rich and fulfilling student experience; access to a global network of engaged, successful alumni—is only possible because we are part of a community forged through shared experiences and with shared values: belonging, integrity, respect, and sustainability.    

On October 28, we celebrated Giving Day, an annual tradition that mobilizes that same community in support of current and future generations of Lawrentians. Our colleagues in Advancement positioned us for another incredibly successful Giving Day campaign this year; as a result, we exceeded our Giving Day goals for the second consecutive year and, for the first time ever, we broke the $2,000,000 threshold, raising nearly $2.1 million to support our students! I want to thank everyone who came together in support of our students and programs, and offer a special thanks and congratulations to Interim Vice President of Advancement, Matt Baumler, for his unwavering leadership of the advancement division. Onward, Lawrentians!   

As the leaves turn and we move deeper into the fall term, I am reminded daily of how special this community is. Thank you for your continued commitment to Lawrence and for all that you do to make this university a place of learning and purpose.   

With gratitude, 

Laurie A. Carter, President

Good afternoon, Lawrentians.

It is such a joy to be here with you today for our annual Matriculation Convocation. Each year I am reminded of the privilege it is to serve this remarkable university and this vibrant community. Matriculation convocation is always one of my favorite moments of the year—a time when we gather together not just as individuals but as one community, united by purpose and tradition, and ready to embark on the journey of a new academic year.

Having said this, I start today with a heavy heart. Over the summer we lost a member of our community, Professor Garth Bond, a respected and beloved member of our English department for 20 years, after a long hard-fought battle with leukemia. Garth dedicated his career to growing the minds and hearts of our students using literature and the power of language. He also created close meaningful relationships with many colleagues across campus and others in the community. It was evident that Garth treated people with humanity. His absence is already and will be deeply felt.

A little over a week ago, Julie, Garth’s wife, hosted family and friends at an intimate and touching celebration of his life. His contributions to so many were profound. We will celebrate Garth’s life and legacy as a Lawrence community on the morning of Saturday, October 4. More information will come soon. Please keep Garth’s family, friends, and colleagues in your thoughts as they are in mine.

Welcome to the academic year 2025-2026.

To our first year and new transfer students—welcome. You are beginning what I hope will be one of the most transformative journeys of your life. You bring with you fresh ideas, new energy, and unique perspectives that will enrich us all. You will change Lawrence just as Lawrence will change you.

To our returning students—welcome back. You carry forward our traditions, our culture, and our spirit, and deepen the richness of our community.

To our faculty and staff—thank you for your tireless commitment, your creativity, and your care. It is because of you that Lawrence is the extraordinary place that it is.

Convocation is a time for reflection and renewal. It’s a time to ask ourselves who we are as a university, where we are going, and what it means to be part of a learning community dedicated to excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and in the Conservatory of Music. It is also a time to connect our daily work here—in classrooms, in studios, on playing fields, and across campus—to the larger world we live in.

Last Thursday, the country paused to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001.  Most of the students here were not yet born that day. Many faculty and staff were born but lived far away from New York City, Washington DC or Shanksville, PA, where the violence played out. I was in New York City that day. It started like most days, I dropped my three-year old at pre-school, drove home, parked my car, and walked to the train station for the hour-long commute to work. I was in my office before the first plane hit the World Trade Center and watched in horror as the second plane hit. My world was thrown into chaos. Lincoln Center, where I worked, was considered a potential target. Phone lines were jammed, all bridges and tunnels were blocked. New York City was under attack. I couldn’t leave the city or contact my family. At the same time, I had to gather our students together and keep them safe until we had more information. 

As the day unfolded, two thousand nine hundred and seventy-seven lives were lost as the towers fell, and we learned about the Pentagon and Shanksville attacks. The entire nation was in shock and mourning. Late afternoon, we got word that a few trains were leaving New York City for New Jersey, I left my office and began the 30-block walk to the train station hoping to be on one of them. It was still daylight, but the sky was darkened by the ash and smoke from the towers. There was no vehicular traffic, so the only people I saw were those like me walking dazed through the streets. I was overwhelmed by the events of the day but as I looked around, I noticed that in almost every store window was an American flag. That attack on our country robbed us of many lives but it didn’t rob us of the hope that we had for a united America.

I have a similar hope today as we begin this academic year at a challenging time in the world, in our nation, and in higher education. All around us, we see a world marked by polarization and division. Too often differences are treated as threats rather than as opportunities for dialogue and understanding. In politics, in media, and even in our communities, we see voices talking past one another rather than with one another. That polarization is corrosive to our ability to work together, to trust one another, and to build a shared future.

We see families weighed down by economic uncertainty, struggling with questions about opportunity, safety, and financial stability. We see communities torn apart by senseless violence and vitriol. And climate change, global conflict, and unprecedented shifts in federal policy test our resilience and force us to think about the world not just as it is today, but as it must be tomorrow.

The challenges facing the world, the nation, and higher education are real. In the midst of all of this, trust in institutions—including colleges and universities—is fragile. Higher education, once seen as one of the strongest engines of opportunity and economic mobility, now faces skepticism from many quarters. Families question the cost. Public leaders question its value. Students themselves wonder whether the investment of time and resources will yield the life they hope for.

Rising costs and shifting demographics create financial pressures for colleges and families alike. The number of traditional-age college students is declining in many regions. Small, private liberal arts colleges like Lawrence face the added challenge of correcting the misconception that the liberal arts are somehow “impractical” or irrelevant in today’s workforce.

And yet, even in this difficult landscape, there must be hope. Because what we do at Lawrence—what a liberal arts education does — is exactly what this moment calls for.

Technological change is reshaping industries at a breathtaking pace, transforming how we live, work, and even relate to one another. Artificial intelligence, automation, and global competition mean that many of the jobs our students will hold in their lifetime do not even exist yet. This is the moment when the liberal arts matter most. In a rapidly changing, unpredictable world, the ability to think critically, communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and adapt creatively is more essential than ever.

These are precisely the hallmarks of a Lawrence education. This is our strength.

But how do we continue to deliver on that promise when the world around us threatens to erode the very foundation of work, when the winds of public pressure and national discourse attack our collective identity and encourage us to waver from our path?

Here too, comes a simple truth: we lean into who we are, and who we have always been.

At Lawrence, we are guided by values that have long defined our community: Belonging, Integrity, Respect, and Sustainability. These values are not just words on a page. They are the commitments that shape how we learn, how we live together, and how we prepare to lead in the world.

Our value of Belonging reminds us that every member of this community deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported. It is about more than inclusion; it is about creating an environment where each of us feels that we are truly part of something larger than ourselves. Belonging is not about sameness. It is about honoring difference and weaving together a community rich in diversity. It is the deeply felt sense that you matter, that you enrich our community, that you influence our future. It is the difference between being tolerated and being welcomed; between performing to fit in and thriving because your uniqueness and humanity are not just acknowledged but celebrated. When people feel they belong—when YOU feel you belong—you bring your whole selves: your ideas, your energy, your hopes and dreams and failures.

You may be asking, as many in the world are—so what?  How does it affect my time at Lawrence? Why does that matter?

Belonging matters because at our core, we are social creatures. Our best performances—on the stage, field, court, or classroom—are unlocked when we feel safe to experiment, to take risks, to fail and to learn. Belonging reduces fear and uncertainty. It deepens trust. It fosters collaboration. It converts a collection of individuals into a cohesive team. It improves attendance, increases retention, boosts learning and personal development. At a time when so much of the world pushes people apart, belonging brings us together.

It is incumbent upon us all to cultivate belonging. But how?

We start by listening, real listening – the kind of listening that suspends quick judgment and seeks to understand the story behind the sentence, and the soul behind the story. We create practices and processes that invite participation. We make our norms explicit: how we disagree, how we repair harm, how we show up for one another and celebrate each other’s contributions.

And, when someone is left out, we refuse to normalize their absence. We ask why and we act.

Small gestures matter: learning someone’s name and pronouncing it correctly, making meeting times accessible to parents and caregivers, asking quieter people for input and giving them space to speak, and sharing a smile and hello as you walk by people on campus. Those gestures compound into a culture of belonging.

Our value of Integrity calls us to live with honesty and purpose, even when it is difficult. In a world where truth can feel malleable, integrity anchors us. Integrity is a fundamental value that shapes the moral fabric of our campus. It encompasses honesty, trustworthiness, and a strong adherence to ethical principles in all aspects of academic and personal conduct. Integrity fosters a culture of respect, fairness, and accountability, which are essential for creating an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. 

Academic integrity is perhaps the most visible form of integrity within our community. Students are expected to submit their own work, avoid plagiarism, and give proper credit to sources. Returning students, I know you know this one: I hereby reaffirm my commitment to the Lawrence University honor code.

Upholding academic honesty ensures that students genuinely learn and earn their achievements, maintaining the credibility of our institution and the value of their degrees. When students cheat or plagiarize, it not only compromises their integrity but also diminishes the trust among students and faculty, ultimately weakening the academic community. 

Beyond academics, integrity also influences how we interact with one another. Valuing perspectives different from your own, being truthful in communications, and adhering to positive social norms contribute to a healthy campus climate. For example, standing up against bullying or unfair treatment demonstrates moral courage and reinforces a sense of community and mutual respect. 

Integrity also prepares students for future challenges. The moral principles learned at Lawrence serve as a foundation for professional and personal life. Employers value honesty and ethical behavior, and individuals known for their integrity are more likely to earn trust and leadership roles. 

Integrity is vital at Lawrence because it underpins academic excellence, nurtures respectful relationships, and develops responsible citizens. By committing to honesty and ethical conduct, students and faculty can cultivate an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and personally. Upholding integrity today shapes a more honest and just society tomorrow.

How do we cultivate integrity? 

We remember what we do when we think no one is watching matters now more than ever.  

Our value of Respect compels us to listen intently, to engage across differences, and to treat others with dignity. Respect is fundamental to creating a positive, inclusive, and productive environment for all students, faculty, and staff. It fosters mutual understanding, enhances collaboration, and promotes a sense of community. Respect does not require agreement, but it does call for openness, civility, and a willingness to value the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and beliefs of others.  

At Lawrence, respecting others begins with basic manners, such as courteous communication and active listening. It means valuing differing opinions, even when they conflict with your own, and engaging in open-minded discussions. Respect also entails recognizing personal boundaries and property, ensuring a safe environment where everyone feels comfortable. 

Respect extends beyond interpersonal interactions. It involves honoring shared spaces by keeping them clean and maintained and respecting institutional rules and policies. Complying with them demonstrates consideration for our collective well-being. Respect is also crucial in fostering academic integrity. Valuing each other’s learning experiences encourages honesty and responsibility. Plagiarism, cheating, or disruptive behavior undermine this respect and diminish the educational value of the Lawrence experience. 

Respect is the cornerstone of a thriving Lawrence. It creates a supportive atmosphere in which students can learn, grow, and succeed. By practicing respect daily, individuals contribute to a harmonious community that values each person’s dignity and fosters lifelong skills essential for a civil society. 

Our value of Sustainability challenges us to be good stewards—of our environment, our resources, and of each other. It reminds us to think long-term and to care for the future as much as the present. Environmental and financial sustainability are critical priorities for Lawrence as we strive to create a responsible and resilient future.  

Environmental sustainability involves implementing practices that reduce the ecological footprint of university operations, conserve natural resources, and promote awareness among students, faculty and staff. We are working to achieve this by adopting energy-efficient technologies, using renewable energy sources, and promoting green spaces. These efforts help decrease greenhouse gas emissions, preserve local ecosystems, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility. 

Financial sustainability, on the other hand, ensures that Lawrence can maintain our operations, facilities, and programs over the long term without compromising the university’s economic stability. This involves strategic budgeting, diversifying income sources such as grants, donations, and partnerships, and managing expenses prudently. Financially sustainable colleges are better equipped to invest in quality education, infrastructure, and student life, which in turn enhances their reputation and appeals to prospective students. Integrating environmental and financial sustainability creates a balanced approach that benefits both the planet and the institution’s economic health. 

Environmental and financial sustainability are interconnected goals that help us operate responsibly, reduce our ecological impact, and ensure long-term viability. By embracing innovative practices and active engagement, Lawrence can serve as a model of sustainability.

These values—Belonging, Integrity, Respect, and Sustainability—are the foundation for a Lawrence where we can grapple with the full range of ideas and perspectives that shape our society. They are what allow us to practice civil discourse in a time when it is sorely needed. They are what allow us to thrive not only as individuals but as a community. They are the buffers that insulate us from the chaos and conflict of the world and the vehicles through which we can create change. These values make it clear to the world that hate, violence, bullying, and intimidation are not welcome at Lawrence University.

And they are a testament to one truth above all others: the liberal arts education you receive at Lawrence is not just preparation for a job—it is preparation for a life of meaning, purpose, and impact. Lawrence has delivered on that promise for 177 years, a beacon on the river, shedding light on society’s greatest challenges and illuminating students’ futures.

Through your studies, you will learn to think critically, to question assumptions, to approach problems from multiple perspectives, and to communicate with clarity and creativity. You will engage in collaboration, in research, in performance, in community work—experiences that shape, not only what you know, but who you become.

Employers consistently tell us that what they seek are graduates who can adapt, who can learn continuously, who can lead with empathy, and who can solve complex problems. That is exactly what the liberal arts deliver, what Lawrence delivers. A Lawrence degree prepares you not just for your first job, but for a lifetime of evolving careers in a world that will continue to change in ways we cannot yet imagine.

Consider our alumni. They are innovators, educators, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and public servants. They are shaping communities and industries.  and musicians; CEOs and Presidents of national organizations, innovating entrepreneurs, and a Nobel Prize winner. Their Lawrence education gave them the foundation to succeed — and to make a difference. So, while we honor our long tradition of academic excellence, we also embrace the responsibility to evolve. Lawrence is modernizing the liberal arts to meet the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s world.

We see this in our new West Campus development, which expands our downtown footprint and connects us with Appleton in new and exciting ways. West Campus, our first new academic building in 30 years—and the only building on campus intentionally designed for interdisciplinary collaboration—will unlock transformative learning experiences for students studying the humanities, music, math, statistics, and computer science. Equipped with eight state-of-the art classrooms, a digital humanities laboratory within our Humanities Center, a music production studio, a math commons, and space for over thirty faculty from both our College of Arts and Sciences and the Conservatory of Music, this new facility is a visible sign of our commitment to growth and innovation.

We see this in our new Pre-Health Commons, the Business and Entrepreneurship Center, and the independent apartment-style living options in Fox Commons. These spaces not only provide learning laboratories for our students in the heart of downtown Appleton but also serve as catalysts for personal growth and development.

We see it in partnerships with organizations like the Trout Museum of Art, Mosaic Family Health, Prevea, and gener8tor — collaborations that provide real-world experiences and pathways for students in the arts, health, business, and entrepreneurship. These partnerships show that the liberal arts are not isolated but deeply connected to the needs and opportunities of our community and our world.

We see it in our faculty’s innovative teaching and research, in interdisciplinary programs that cross traditional boundaries, and in opportunities for experiential learning that prepare students for leadership in a complex world. We see it in the care we take in supporting the whole student — intellectually, emotionally, and socially.

Lawrence is not standing still. We are building on our traditions to ensure that this university—and the education it offers—remains as transformative today as it has been for generations.

As we begin this new year, I want to challenge each of you—students, faculty, staff—to live our values out loud and embrace the opportunities of this moment.

Students: Engage fully. Stretch yourself. Listen across difference. Use your Lawrence experience to grow not only in knowledge but in empathy. Seek out voices unlike your own. Be curious. See the humanity in others. And above all, be kind. Be kind to yourselves, to each other, and to those in our broader community.

Faculty and staff: Continue to model the care, curiosity, and integrity that are hallmarks of this university. Continue to create spaces where students can ask big questions, wrestle with complexity, and discover their passions. Continue to encourage your students to grapple with different perspectives and to be open to new ideas and new ways of knowing and interacting with the world. Your work shapes not only careers but lives.

Every September 11 since 2001, I pause to remember the lives lost. I remember how the Hudson River made me feel an ocean away from my family; I remember the anguish of parents who couldn’t reach their students. But most profoundly, I remember the man who sat next to me on the train back to New Jersey, which would only take me part of the way home. We happened to live in the same town, so we agreed to share a cab from the train station. During that cab ride, he told me that he was in the twin towers, that he watched as friends and colleagues perished, that he was grateful to have made it out. He seemed a million miles away as he told his story but, in the end, he expressed gratitude for surviving, and for those that helped him navigate his way to the train so that he could get home to his family. 

As I begin this academic year, I too am filled with gratitude. I am grateful that I have the privilege of leading an institution that understands its role in society and is committed to preparing its students to lead a world and a country that needs hope now as much as we did in 2001.

Lawrence has always been a place where lives are transformed—where students discover their passions, sharpen their talents, and prepare to contribute to society in meaningful ways. That is no less true today. In fact, it is more urgent than ever.

I believe in you, Lawrentians. I believe in the power of this education, in the strength of our community, and in the values that guide us. Together, we will navigate these challenging times and shape a future defined by belonging, integrity, respect, and sustainability.

We are Lawrence, and that means you.

Onward, Lawrentians. Thank you.

Dear Lawrentians:

Welcome to a new academic year at Lawrence!  Before I share with you some important updates for the coming year, I want to take a moment to acknowledge a deep loss to our community. As many of you know, Professor Garth Bond passed away earlier this summer. Professor Bond joined the Lawrence community in 2005 as a visiting instructor in the English department. Over the past two decades, Garth’s passion and enthusiasm inspired hundreds of Lawrentians – students, faculty, and staff alike. This is a momentous loss for our community, and Garth will be sorely missed. The university will be hosting a memorial service to celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Bond on October 4th at 10:00am. Please stay tuned for more information from the Office of the Provost and the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life.

Each fall, our campus is reinvigorated with energy, possibility, and community, and I am so grateful to share this journey with all of you. Thanks to everyone who planned and participated in Summer Institute, new student move-in, the President’s Welcome, Welcome Week activities, and returning student move-in. A special thanks, also, to Joe King, Senior Assistant Vice President of Facilities Operations, and the entire Facilities Services team for their ceaseless efforts in preparing and beautifying our campus for the coming year. 

This summer, we were thrilled to welcome two new members to the university’s senior leadership team: Dr. Christopher Jenkins and Brian Foss.

Dr. Jenkins, a forward-thinking leader in music higher education, joined us as the new dean of Lawrence University’s Conservatory of Music in July. In this role, he will oversee all aspects of Lawrence’s music degree programs and contribute significantly to the university’s academic mission.

Brian Foss, who comes to Lawrence after serving in higher education for more than 20 years at the Cleveland Institute of Music and Case Western Reserve University, joined us in August as our new Vice President for Finance and Administration. He will play a key role in sustainably stewarding the business of the university in ways that will continue to strengthen our financial foundation and serve students for generations to come.

I’m also excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Elizabeth Becker, Associate Professor of Neuroscience, to Special Assistant to the President. In this role, Elizabeth will work closely with members of our campus community to develop new summer programs and advance our Early College initiatives, expanding the ways we are able to connect with the Lawrentians of tomorrow.

Campus was abuzz in other ways this summer as well. 40 members of our faculty participated in our annual Lawrence University Research Fellows (LURF) program, providing hands-on research opportunities for 83 students! Programs like this are just one of many ways we work to equip our students for success in life after Lawence – thanks to all the faculty who curated transformative summer experiences and to the Office of the Provost for supporting yet another spectacular cohort of LURF opportunities. 

Our senior staff and faculty leadership team gathered in August for our annual retreat, where we reflected on our mission, celebrated recent successes, and aligned on priorities for the year ahead. We will be sharing out takeaways from this retreat in various forums throughout the year, including Senior Staff, Chairs and Directors, All Staff and Faculty Meetings, and look forward to reconvening the leadership team in December to continue to align our work around a shared vision for success. 

Congratulations to Dr. Melissa Range, Associate Professor of English, on being awarded the 2025 Vanderbilt University Literary Prize for her outstanding work Printer’s Fist — an honor that reflects the depth of creativity and scholarship at Lawrence.

Applause as well to Kristin Roach, Assistant Professor of Music, who has been recognized by The American Prize in not one, but two categories for Opera Conducting. Her artistry enriches our community and inspires our students.

I would also like to congratulate Noemi Delgado, Director of Accessibility Services, and Garrett Singer, Deputy Chief of Staff, for being recognized by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce as part of this year’s cohort of Future 15 Young Professionals. Recipients are selected based on their professional dedication, strong sense of vision for the future of the Fox Cities, and personal commitment to philanthropy in the community. This marks the 6th such recognition of Lawrence employees in as many years, and I’m incredibly proud of the way our employees reflect our institutional values in both their personal and professional lives.

It is also my immense pleasure to report the openings of several new campus facilities this fall:

On August 28, we opened the third floor of Fox Commons, cutting the ribbon on Lawrence’s new Pre-Health Commons, additional apartments for juniors and seniors, common areas, and a third-floor patio overlooking College Avenue. Thanks to all of those involved in preparing these spaces for our community, and a special thanks to Dr. Beth De Stasio, Professor of Biology and inaugural director of the Pre-Health Commons, for transforming an innovative vision into an inspired reality. 

On September 5, we celebrated the completion of our new academic space in the west campus facility. The West Campus building is the first on our campus intentionally designed for interdisciplinary collaboration and learning, and our first new academic building in nearly 30 years. It includes eight state-of-the art classrooms, a digital humanities laboratory within our Humanities Center, a music production studio, a math commons, and space for over thirty faculty from both our College of Arts and Sciences and the Conservatory of Music on the second floor. West Campus was built in collaboration with the Trout Museum of Art. The museum occupies the first level of the building while the top two floors of the building house market-rate apartments that are currently available for rent to the public. Thanks to all who played a role in developing this innovative space.

The second floor of the Seeley G. Mudd Library is home to a new academic center. Thanks to the leadership of Dr. Elizabeth Sattler, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, and Becky Frank, Director of the Seeley G. Mudd Library, we have officially opened a Quantitative Resource Center, designed to provide additional support in the areas of quantitative reasoning and interpretation. Dr. Wöden Kusner, visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics, will serve as the inaugural director. 

Across from the Viking Room, students can now enjoy a new alcohol-free lounge — a welcoming space designed for fun and connection. The lounge features board games, ping pong, and plenty of comfortable seating, plus a projector for movie nights or presentations. This new lounge is part of our campus-wide initiative to create additional space for students to just “be”. The newly installed outdoor furniture across campus, including our Adirondack chairs and the refurbished plaza outside of the library are also part of this campus project. Thanks to all those in Student Life and Facilities Services who collaborated to bring this vision to life.

Looking ahead, I could not be more excited to welcome alumni, parents, families, and friends of Lawrence back to Appleton for Homecoming Weekend on October 17–18. In addition to seeing our new facilities and cheering on our student athletes (Go Vikings!), we are hosting our first Greek Reunion to celebrate the long and vibrant 166-year history of fraternity and sorority life at Lawrence.

I am continually inspired by the ways our community comes together—in the classroom, on the stage, on the field, and in the many traditions that make Lawrence special. Each of us brings unique talents and perspectives, yet it is our shared commitment to one another that makes this place truly extraordinary. Let us celebrate our successes, support one another through challenges, and embrace the joy of being part of this remarkable community. 

Together, We are Lawrence.

Onward Lawrentians,

Laurie A. Carter
President

Good afternoon.

I’m President Laurie Carter, and it is my great joy to welcome you to Lawrence University.

Each fall, the arrival of a new class adds vibrancy to our campus. You bring new ideas, new talents, and new perspectives that will shape the Lawrence community for years to come. And so, before celebrating your arrival as Lawrentians, I’d like to pause and thank the people who helped you get here:

• To the Admissions team, who recognized your promise and potential;
• To the Student Life team, who are ready to help you find your place and flourish;
• And to your families, friends, and loved ones—thank you for entrusting us with your student’s future and for the love and encouragement you’ve given along the way.

And now, to you – our newest students, the Class of 2029 – today you become Lawrentians.

You are beginning an extraordinary journey. Over the next four or five years, you will grow in ways you cannot yet imagine: through your studies, your friendships, your passions, and the opportunities you embrace. Along the way, you will add your voice and your story to Lawrence’s long and proud history.

The Lawrence legacy reminds us that we are part of something larger. For more than 175 years, Lawrence has been a beacon of academic excellence, preparing critical thinkers and creative problem-solvers who are prepared to lead well-into the future. From Nobel prize winners to corporate innovators, prolific performers and visionary public health professionals – Lawrentians have gone on to change the world.

When you walked through the Lawrence Arch today you joined that community of change-makers, and, in four or five short years, you will walk back through that Arch as graduates. You will carry with you the spirit of Lawrence with you wherever you go.

Together, we will continue to honor the rich tradition of a Lawrence education. We will prepare you with a broad intellectual foundation, immersing you in new perspectives through exposure to the humanities, the natural sciences, and the arts. We will prepare you to be agile thinkers, collaborative problem solvers, and effective communicators. And we will continue to modernize the Lawrence experience – because we know that many of the careers we are preparing you for don’t yet exist. 

As recently as last week, we have completed historic investments in YOU, the Lawrentians of today and tomorrow.

We’ve opened several vibrant and innovative academic spaces, restorative lounge spaces, and independent housing options for junior and senior students. Through these investments, we’ve unlocked transformative learning opportunities for our students, opportunities that will connect you with local businesses and nonprofit organizations, prepare you for the future, and deepen your engagement with this incredible community.

Congratulations, Class of 2029. We are thrilled that you are here. On behalf of the faculty and staff, know that we are committed to walking alongside you in this journey. Together, we will make your Lawrence experience extraordinary. Together, We are Lawrence. 

Welcome home, Lawrentians.

I’m now thrilled to introduce you to your LUCC President Brook Schara. 

Greetings to the Class of 2025 and to parents, family members, and friends. We gather here today to celebrate an incredible milestone in the lives of these graduates. Greetings also to our wonderful faculty and staff. This day is possible because of your talent, hard work, and dedication to our students.

To our distinguished guests, Mr. Campbell Scott, Class of 1983 and today’s Commencement speaker; Mr. Robert McDonald, Class of 1973 and the speaker at yesterday’s Baccalaureate service; and Mr. Scott Myers, Class of 1979 and chair of the Lawrence University Board of Trustees, welcome and thank you.

I would also like to acknowledge the presence of Board of Trustee members the Honorable Louis Butler ’73, Dr. Cheryl Kopecky ’72, and Mr. Jon Stellmacher.

Graduates, this is truly a moment of joy. Take a deep breath and look around this beautiful setting on Main Hall Green. Take it all in—sitting shoulder to shoulder with classmates who have walked this journey with you, joined by the faculty and staff who have guided and nurtured you, and the family and friends who prepared you for and supported you along the way.

Getting to this moment is no small thing. You have earned it. You have put in the work and demonstrated the vision, tenacity, and resilience necessary to be here today, to be celebrated as graduates of Lawrence University.

When today’s ceremony concludes, you will recess through the Lawrence Arch—passing from student to alumni—and into a world filled with both uncertainty and opportunity. While the diploma alone will not guarantee you anything, the road you’ve walked and the work you’ve done as undergraduates has prepared you to lead a life of purpose and accomplishment no matter where your path takes you.

I urge you to go forth on that life journey with a boundless imagination and the wisdom to know there is still much to learn. Do so with diligence and humility and commitment, with kindness and empathy, building community wherever your feet may land.

The liberal arts education you have received at Lawrence has shown you a path to a lifetime of learning and growing. You’ll often hear alumni say that it was at Lawrence that they learned how to learn. And that carries through life, through good times and challenging times. You are now better equipped to adapt, to innovate, to think critically, and to thrive.

From lessons learned in First-Year Studies to the intellectual commitment required for your Senior Experience and everything in between, you have lived the principles of a liberal arts education—learning to read critically, think broadly, and communicate clearly and effectively across the arts and humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

The Class of 2025 is the first class that I have had the privilege of watching grow, learn, and develop from their first day of Welcome Week to commencement, and I have gotten to know so many of you along the way. Given that these incredible graduates are part of my inaugural class, I’d ask you all to allow me a moment of grace, as my student shout-out section may be a little longer than usual.

I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with several of you as we sought to enhance the Lawrence experience and provide new pathways for student growth and development. Mattigan Haller, a triple major in Biochemistry, Biology, and Spanish, and member of the softball team, and Daryian Matthews, a double-major in Philosophy and Psychology, brought incredible wisdom to my Student Advisory Council and were instrumental in developing the concepts for Fox Commons and West Campus.

Others, like Cammy Anh Bui, who greeted me to campus with a big hug, and Ali Butler, who along with her grandfather—board member Louis Butler—visited the President’s house the summer I arrived, and Mohamed Khalil-Ben Nasr, one of the hardest working students I have ever met, and Mariana Zendejas, an incredible artist and legacy student, I met early in their first term on campus, newly-minted Lawrentians eager to make an impact in a new community. We embarked on that journey together—meeting new people, exploring downtown Appleton, and turning an unfamiliar place into our new home. It’s been an honor watching you develop into campus leaders.

And others still I got to know through their passionate commitment to extracurricular pursuits. Thomas Craley, a stand-out foil fencer for the Vikings, championed excellence in sport and in his academic and community engagements, studying forestry and preserving our nation’s precious natural resources by serving as a firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service.

Kieran McDermott, an English major with a co-curricular record too long to recite, demonstrated incredible poise while working with the administration as a representative of CODA and as a student member of the university’s Federal Action Task Force, providing a crucial student voice as our community navigated the potential impacts of recent changes to federal policy.

Cindy Kaiser, a triple major in psychology, flute, and music education, showed leadership and kindness during a challenging time, reminding me that, in contentious moments, there is always grace in fellowship.

Richie LaCien and Edan Perez, both business and entrepreneurship majors who always had a kind word and smile to share while leading on campus through participation in KidsGive and baseball.

And MinJun Kim, a computer science major who developed a campus safety app that we will begin using on-campus next year.

And, while these individual achievements reflect brilliance in their own right, we know that we shine brighter together.

Seniors involved in student organizations, ensembles, and athletic teams have had an incredible run at Lawrence as well. Nearly a dozen graduates were recognized for their ensemble performances by Downbeat earlier this year, continuing to further the Conservatory’s legacy in its 150^th anniversary year.

This year, our softball team secured a berth in the conference tournament for the first time in a decade. Our women’s soccer program clinched both their conference season and the conference tournament for the first time in program history.

And members of our graduating Posse Scholarship cohort—Braden, Daisha, Michael, Seckou, Hayleen, Mali, Bruna, Gregory, A.J., and Nathaniel—are crossing the stage after leaving this campus with a legacy of leadership, music, dance, joy, and humanity.

These are just a few examples of brilliance from this amazing class.

As you walk the Commencement stage today, do so knowing that you are now a member of an alumni community more than 22,000 strong. It is a community that will support you and applaud you every step of the way.

When we say Forever a Lawrentian, we mean Forever a Lawrentian. Today’s send-off is not a good-bye. It is more of a … we’ll see you again soon. Lawrence will forever be part of your lives.

Embrace this community of learners and leaders. I encourage you to make the effort to stay connected even as the miles and years and life experiences separate you. Find solace and inspiration from your fellow Lawrentians.

We know there is a lot of pain in this world.

We see it and feel it and live it, and there are days when it can crush our spirit. Don’t ever navigate that alone. Lean into your Lawrentian family for strength.

Let them be a source of comfort amid challenges and your biggest cheerleaders amid life’s victories.

Parents, guardians, families, and friends, we also celebrate you today. No one walks this journey alone. Your contributions and sacrifices have helped your graduate reach this day. Your guidance and support going forward will be no less valuable. Graduates, please join me in thanking your support team for all they’ve done. And to the dads in the audience, we celebrate you today. Happy Father’s Day.  

To the Class of 2025, on behalf of the full faculty and staff of this university, I wish you the very best. You are ready to do amazing things.

Go forth and put your imprint on a world that so badly needs the intellect, creativity, inspiration, and compassion of you and your fellow Lawrentians.

To all of you, congratulations.

It is now my honor to present our 2025 senior class speaker, Bruna Velez.

Bruna is an international relations major from New York City who has been a leader on campus in so many ways over the past four years. She has served as president of Lawrence’s Model United Nations team, worked with the Office of Advancement to connect with alumni through our Forever a Lawrentian campaign, been active in sorority life, was a member of the cheer and dance teams, and was an enthusiastic and supportive participant in the Posse Foundation program.

She studied abroad in Rome and secured summer internships in New York and Washington, D.C., all with a focus on being an impactful global citizen.

And last month, Bruna was among the student dancers featured in “Gather Together,” the original dance performance presented so beautifully by choreographer Robert Battle as part of the inaugural Creator in Residence program. Bruna’s post-graduation plans include working as a paralegal before beginning law school.

Please join me in welcoming this year’s senior class speaker, Bruna Velez.

Dear Lawrentians:

As we approach the end of another remarkable academic year, I want to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the incredible energy, creativity, and kindness that have defined our community this spring, as well as reiterate our collective commitment to protecting our values through the work of the Federal Action Task Force, comprised of staff and faculty from across the institution.

Last week, we welcomed the Board of Trustees to campus for our May meetings. The Board was deeply engaged and inspired by the momentum they saw across the university, from our bold academic vision to the vibrant student experiences that make Lawrence such a special place. The Board toured the rapidly progressing facilities at West Campus, met with graduating seniors who intend to pursue graduate studies, received updates about enrollment, the campaign, and from LUCC, and finalized the budget for next year. I am grateful for their continued partnership and support.

I’m thrilled to report that the board also approved the following faculty for promotion: Dominica Chang, French and Francophone Studies; Mark Jenike, Anthropology; Doug Martin, Physics; and Julie McQuinn, Musicology. Congratulations, all! This well-deserved achievement is a testament to your pedagogy, research, university service, and the light you shine on our campus. More details on the Spring Board Meetings can be found in the update shared earlier this week by Christyn Abaray, Vice President and Secretary to the Board.

Following the board meeting on Friday afternoon, I had the pleasure of exploring the natural world through the lens of our incredibly insightful biology students at BioFest, a showcase of senior experiences and research projects. More than three dozen seniors presented their research on a variety of subjects, allowing members of the campus and Appleton community alike an opportunity to engage with complex research in an accessible and digestible way. Congratulations to all on successfully completing your senior experiences, and a special thanks to the many faculty and staff who supported you on this journey.

Progress on our new academic and residential facilities at West Campus continues to move forward with great speed. The academic floor—which will house the Math, Statistics, and Computer Science department, Conservatory studios and practice rooms, Lawrence’s new Humanities Center, and a state-of-the-art music production studio—will open for use this fall. The university is in the final stages of identifying a property management partner for the market-rate apartments on the third and fourth floors, and we look forward to welcoming tenants from the Appleton community as early as August.

Two student jazz ensembles—the LU Jazz Ensemble and the Latin Jazz Ensemble—contributed to a Conservatory legacy, winning 2025 honors in Downbeat magazine’s Student Music awards. This recognition marks the eighth time in eight years that Lawrence students have brought a top ensemble award to our campus. Congratulations to Patty Darling, instructor of music, José Encarnación, associate professor of music and director of jazz studies, and all our student musicians on this prestigious achievement.

We also had the honor of hosting Robert Battle, our inaugural Creator in Residence, for a powerful week of artistic expression and community engagement. From May 7-10, Robert shared his wisdom and artistry through workshops, conversations, and performances that stirred our imaginations and reminded us of the transformative power of the arts. The spring program culminated in an invigorating and joyful performance entitled “Gather Together,” embodying an ethos of community and collaboration that perfectly captures the Lawrentian spirit. This work would not have been possible without the support of Lawrence instructors and faculty—Mauriah Donegan Kraker, Margaret Paek, and Jean Carlo Ureña González—and an incredible cast of student performers and musicians. I extend my gratitude to everyone who helped bring his residency to life. Special thanks to Trustee emeritus Harold Jordan ’72 and his wife Mary Donn ’73 for their generous contribution to support this program.

KidsGive, a program created in 2009 by Lawrence students and Professor Dena Skran, celebrated a huge accomplishment this term. Since its founding, Lawrentians who participated in the KidsGive program have traveled to Sierra Leone to support projects focused on youth education and health. As part of this work, KidsGive contributed to the development of an all-girls junior secondary school at the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) School. After 15 years of continuous effort, the school recently celebrated its grand opening! I am profoundly moved by these efforts; the legacy of this work will endure for decades to come, a shining beacon of the transformative power of global engagement and experiential learning at Lawrence.

Our 17 Days of Kindness initiative has been another shining example of what makes this community exceptional. From handwritten notes and shared meals to volunteer efforts and spontaneous acts of generosity, this celebration of compassion and connection has brightened our campus and reminded us that small gestures can have lasting impact. Thanks to all who planned, enacted, and participated in this ever-expanding tradition.

Lawrentians also celebrated the robust history of Greek life on campus through Greek Week, marking the 165^th anniversary of fraternity and sorority life at Lawrence. The weeklong celebration culminated in a Fraternity and Sorority Awards luncheon this past Sunday, at which we honored the collective and individual accomplishments of Greeks across campus. While Greek Week has now wrapped in spectacular fashion, I now look forward to the inaugural Greek Reunion at homecoming this fall!

Congratulations are also in order for Faith Onukaogu ’26, who took home the top prize in The Pitch, a regional business startup competition, for her innovative multi-purpose clothing brand, Anima Unita. This is a tremendous achievement, and we are so proud of Faith for representing Lawrence with such vision and poise. Thank you to all who supported her journey and to those who planned and executed this exciting opportunity. This marks the seventh time in the nine-year history of The Pitch that a Lawrentian has won seed money for a startup idea.

Athletics has given us more to celebrate. Men’s Baseball captured their third conference championship in four years—an extraordinary accomplishment that speaks to the dedication and talent of our student-athletes and coaching staff. And Women’s Softball made a triumphant return to the conference tournament for the first time in a decade. Congratulations, Vikings! And a special congratulations to coaches Trent Whitcomb and Korey Krueger for realizing these accomplishments in their very first seasons. These successes are a testament to the perseverance and spirit of our Vikings.

For the first time in 20 years, Lawrence hosted the Midwest Conference Outdoor Track and Field championship earlier this month. This amazing achievement gave us the opportunity to showcase our updated track and field facilities. Thanks to all those across campus who made hosting this momentous event possible.

Finally, I want to congratulate Men’s Fencing head coach, Eric Momberg, on being recognized as the United States Fencing Coaches Association’s (USFCA) Division III Men’s Team Coach of the Year. This prestigious national recognition is well-deserved, as Coach Momberg has led the Vikings to incredible successes in competition, has developed an outstanding team culture, and has been honored twice in recent years as the Central Collegiate Fencing Conference Coach of Year. Congratulations, Eric!

As Commencement approaches and we prepare to send the Class of 2025 out into the world, let us carry forward the joy, excellence, and kindness that have defined this spring. Thank you for all that you do to make Lawrence a place of brilliance, belonging, and bold ambition.

With gratitude,

Laurie A. Carter, President

Dear Lawrentians:

As the snow melts and the first signs of spring emerge across campus, I find myself reflecting on what a season of renewal truly means. This time of year invites us to pause, appreciate the beauty of change, and recognize the many ways our Lawrence community continues to flourish, together.

Over the past few weeks, news reports have detailed actions taken by federal agencies that impact students directly, both with respect to access to federal funding and the termination of hundreds of students’ lawful immigration status. Lawrence’s Federal Action Task Force is closely monitoring these developments, especially those that could affect our students’ financial aid as well as our international student community.

At this time, we’ve received no indication that Lawrence’s federal funding is at risk, and we are undertaking continual efforts to safeguard against any federal intervention or investigation against our institution. On April 7, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU) issued an action alert referencing potential changes to the Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Federal Work Study, and Pell Grant programs. We will continue to provide updates to the campus community as we learn more. If you have specific questions related to financial aid, please contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Unfortunately, during our daily monitoring of student visa statuses, we learned of the visa revocation of one of our recent graduates who is participating in their one-year of optional practical training (OPT), an option for all recent graduates that attended a US college on a student visa. Our Office of International Student Services is providing resources to this alumnus and is prepared to assist any students who are concerned about their visa status. 

We know that this ongoing uncertainty can feel unsettling. Please know that we remain deeply committed to supporting and protecting all members of our community. Our priority is to ensure that Lawrence continues to be a place where everyone feels valued and supported. For additional resources and information on changes in federal policy, please leverage our membership with NAICU and the Chronicle of Higher Education’s higher education policy tracker.

While we remain alert to challenges ahead, we also embrace this season of growth and celebration with open hearts and steadfast resolve. April has always been a month of transition, energy, and joy—and this year is no exception. Over the past several weeks, we’ve witnessed remarkable expressions of creativity, leadership, and community that exemplify the very best of Lawrence.

Earlier this term, the Conservatory of Music marked a significant milestone with a remarkable trip to New York City in celebration of its 150th anniversary. Eleven Conservatory students performed at iconic venues across the city, participated in masterclasses with renowned instructors, and celebrated the Conservatory’s legacy at a reception hosted by Manhattan School of Music President James Gandre ’81—a proud Lawrentian and member of our Board of Trustees. This opportunity to showcase Lawrence talent on a national stage was a memorable moment for all of us.

The celebration of musical excellence continued here at home when Roomful of Teeth—the Grammy Award-winning ensemble featuring our own Estelí Gomez, Assistant Professor of Music—performed a series of new works to an energetic crowd in Memorial Chapel on April 4. Their artistry and innovation were deeply moving and a testament to the extraordinary talent that defines the Lawrence experience.

Spring has also brought meaningful recognition to our faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences. I want to echo Provost Blitstein’s congratulations to Monica Rico, Robert S. French Professor of American Studies and Professor of History, and Nora Lewis, Associate Dean of the Faculty and Associate Professor of Music, both of whom were recently awarded prestigious Academic Leadership Fellowships from the Associated Colleges of the Midwest. This honor acknowledges their outstanding service to Lawrence and their potential for transformative leadership in higher education. Congratulations, Monica and Nora!

I also want to recognize Beth Zinsli, Assistant Professor of Art History and Curator of the Wriston Art Center Galleries, on her election as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Trout Museum of Art. As our collaborative development project with the Trout Museum at West Campus continues to take shape, Beth’s leadership in the local arts scene will further strengthen our community partnerships and create new, enduring programmatic opportunities for our students. Congratulations, Beth!

Progress on our facilities at West Campus continues at speed, and we eagerly await our grand opening this fall.

At Lawrence—and as Lawrentians—we take great pride in preparing students not only for lives of achievement and personal fulfillment but also for committed and meaningful citizenship. One current Lawrentian demonstrated this tradition in spectacular fashion just last week; first-year student Adrian Stancil-Martin connected immediately with Appleton upon matriculating to Lawrence and was elected to serve a two-year term as Alderperson for District 11 on Appleton’s Common Council. Congratulations, Adrian!

In athletics, we are incredibly proud of Coach Eric Momberg, who was named Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season by the Central Collegiate Fencing Conference (CCFC), and of the 12 Lawrence fencers who received CCFC honors for their competitive excellence and sportsmanship.

We are pleased to welcome the Lawrence University Alumni Association (LUAA) Board of Directors to campus this month. During their visit, the board of directors will receive updates on the academic program review, Lawrence’s ongoing response to federal actions, and the progress of our capital campaign. Most importantly, they have the opportunity to engage directly with current students and hear firsthand what it means to be a Lawrentian today. These gatherings are a powerful reminder that our community extends well beyond our campus—and that generations of Lawrentians continue to shape and support the university’s future.

This visit will also give these alumni the opportunity to connect with a familiar face in a new role. I’m excited to announce that Matt Baumler has been promoted to Interim Vice President for Advancement. Matt will succeed Amy Wilson in the vice president role as Amy departs Lawrence to focus on family. I am grateful to Amy for her leadership. Matt has served Lawrence with integrity and exuberance since 2009, most recently as Senior Associate Vice President of Advancement. I am looking forward to working with him in his new role. Congratulations, Matt!

As the days grow longer and the sun begins to warm our pathways once again, I encourage each of you to take a moment to step outside, breathe deeply, and reflect on all we’ve accomplished together.. 

With gratitude for your continued dedication to our community, 

Laurie A. Carter, President

Dear Lawrentians:

As we move into the final week of winter term, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the strength and resilience of our campus community. I am incredibly proud of the many ways Lawrentians continue to shine and excel.   

Lawrence was recently recognized as a top producer of Fulbright recipients, the second such recognition in seven years. Four recent graduates have been selected as Fulbright recipients this year, an accomplishment that reflects the academic rigor of a Lawrence education, the meaningful and successful guidance of our faculty and staff, and the commitment of our students to lifelong learning and global citizenship. A special thanks to Claire Kervin, assistant professor of English and director of fellowships advising, and the Fulbright Campus Committee for supporting our students as they navigated one of the most competitive fellowship programs in the nation.    

I’m thrilled to announce that Lawrence University will also be home to the newly established Alpha-Rho-Mu chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the national honor society for history. The establishment of this chapter will allow our history students and faculty to better connect with scholars across the nation, open new research and publication opportunities for history majors, and contribute to a stronger sense of community and fellowship in our history department. Thanks to Brigid Vance, associate professor of history, for leading this effort and for serving as the chapter’s first faculty advisor. I look forward to inductions this spring!   

Congratulations are also due to Kivie Cahn-Lipman, Lawrence’s new cello professor, who released the premiere recording of The Gentle Shepherd by Allen Ramsay earlier this month. The Gentle Shepherd, first published in 1725, is widely considered to be the first Scottish opera, and the reconstruction of this work presented several technical challenges—the largest being it was published without a score! Thank you, Kivie, for continuing to expose our campus community to works that challenge our conceptions of musical canon.    

Stansbury Theater was graced by yet another seminal work this month; on March 9, director Copeland Woodruff and conductor Kristin Roach led their students in a performance of The Consul, an opera by Gian Carlo Menotti—almost 75 years to the day of its premiere in March of 1950. While this is not the first time The Consul has been performed at Lawrence, the cast and crew breathed new life into this historic story, demonstrating that the Conservatory’s legacy remains vibrant and robust well into its 150^th year. It was a masterful performance; I’m grateful to you all.    

In the world of athletics, our Vikings continue to hone their competitive edge. Three student-athletes on our men’s fencing team—Cristobal Perez Fourcade, Eli Freyre de Andrade, and Thomas Craley—are all headed to the NCAA Championships after stellar finishes in last Saturday’s NCAA Midwest Regional. Congratulations, all!   

This weekend also marked the inaugural home opener for our men’s lacrosse program, which bested the Northland College Lumberjacks in spectacular fashion on Saturday, with a final score of 22 to 5! Women’s lacrosse also brought home a victory from Franklin College, beating the Grizzlies 12-11 on Sunday. Go Vikings!

While the changing of the seasons brings renewal, we also find ourselves navigating federal actions that are already impacting higher education institutions across the country. Recent executive actions have raised concerns about the future of funding for colleges and universities, particularly regarding the potential revocation of federal support. Sixty institutions have received letters indicating forthcoming investigations into their policies and programs, and two institutions—Columbia University and the University of Maine system—have already seen a collective $500 million in grants and contracts suspended. While Lawrence has not received such a letter, we are actively monitoring the situation and preparing for any necessary responses.   

To that end, we have taken proactive steps to ensure we remain informed, prepared, and steadfast in our mission: 

Government Relations Task Force: Led by Alison Scott-Williams, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, this newly assembled group—comprised of staff, faculty, and students—has been meeting since January to track updates from the executive, legislative, and judicial branches and ensure that our community is informed of any potential implications for Lawrentians. 

Emergency Council for Academic Affairs: Originally formed during the pandemic, this council will be called together early in the spring term by Provost Blitstein to further inform our institutional response and ensure the continuity of our academic mission. 

Student Information Sessions: In Week 9, Chris Clarke, Vice President for Student Life, and Eric Schacht, University Counsel, offered an information session to student leadership about the potential impacts of federal actions. This presentation will be repeated in the spring term with updated information to ensure that our students remain informed and prepared.   

Please also know that while the Department of Education announced a significant reduction of force (RIF) last week, federal financial aid programs that support our students and their families—federal student loans, Pell Grants, and other forms of federal aid—have not been affected at this time. Per a March 14 letter published by the Office of the Undersecretary of the Department of Education, “continuity of operations for Federal Student Aid (FSA) is both a statutory and critical function of the Department. Accordingly, no employees working on core functions of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or student loan servicing were impacted by the RIF.” If you have concerns about financial aid awards, please reach out to the Office of Financial Aid.    

We know that many students’ summer internship plans have been negatively affected or revoked in the last several weeks. The Career Center team has been working closely with faculty across the institution to ensure that we can support students whose summer opportunities may have been lost. If your summer plans have been affected by recent executive actions, please contact the Career Center directly. I also ask departments across campus to evaluate their needs over the summer months to determine whether your office is positioned to support a robust student internship. For guidance on establishing internship parameters, please contact your supervisor and the Career Center.    

I know that moments like this—where uncertainty looms large and the most vulnerable among us are targeted—can feel overwhelming. But Lawrence has always been a community rooted in care, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to one another. Whatever challenges lie ahead, we will face them together, resolute in our mission, ready to champion our values and ensure Lawrence remains a place where all can thrive. If you need additional support, please know that the following offices are available to provide resources and guidance: 
Dean of Students 
Spiritual and Religious Life 
Wellness Services 
International Student Services 
Human Resources (the Employee Assistance Program)   

Thank you for all you do to make this community strong. We will continue to keep you updated as we learn more, and in the meantime, I encourage you to lean on one another, extend kindness, and find solace in the strength of our shared purpose. Wishing you all a safe, restful, and restorative spring break.

With gratitude,

Laurie A. Carter, President