St. Cloud State University welcomed faculty and staff back for the start of fall semester and the start of the new school year on Aug. 15 with a convocation address recapping all that took place over the last year, recognizing the challenges, successes and accomplishments achieved throughout campus, and looking forward to the year ahead at SCSU.
President Robbyn Wacker, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Abbey Zink and Student Government Vice President Shriyans Pradhan spoke to faculty and staff in Ritsche Auditorium, welcoming everyone back for the new academic year.
Provost Zink, who began as SCSU’s new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs on July 1, opened the convocation address by welcoming the faculty and staff back to campus and offering excitement for the year ahead.
“I can’t tell you how excited I am to get going on so many things we have that are positive and transformational,” Zink said. “I really look forward to working with all of you and charting the future with you.”
Following Provost Zink, Pradhan addressed faculty and staff on behalf of the students, sharing the important role SCSU and its faculty and staff play in creating an environment that nurtures students dreams and aspirations while providing students with a unique educational experience.
“St. Cloud State University has proven time and again that it is more than just a place of education. It is a second home for domestic and international students. We hail from different corners of the globe, each bringing a unique story, culture and perspective. Yet within these walls, we find a common ground forming friendships that transcend borders,” Pradhan said. “That sense of belonging is the very cornerstone of our academic journey. It is the tireless efforts of our esteemed faculty and staff that have woven this tapestry of inclusivity and community.”
President Wacker opened her address by welcoming everyone back for the academic year and recognizing new faculty and staff that have joined the University. Dr. Wacker revisited all that took place over summer break and recognized the accomplishments and work underway in many areas throughout campus.
President Wacker continued by outlining SCSU’s work in connecting with prospective and current students and offering them an individualized, distinct, one-of-a-kind experience while they are on campus. She also provided an update on the University’s It’s Time framework and it making a difference while shaping SCSU behind a bold, innovative and focused approach.
President Wacker concluded by thanking faculty, staff and departments throughout campus for their commitment to SCSU as the University looks ahead to a successful 2023-24 academic year.
“It’s time for us to live up to our potential. Time to work together to be truly greater for the incredibly amazing students we serve,” Wacker said. “Thank you all so much for everything you do.”
