From the President
Summer is the perfect time to reflect on the past year and prepare for the next. In this moment between academic years, I want to celebrate our institution’s remarkable achievements and look forward to future opportunities.
Transylvania University has thrived in fostering transformative learning experiences. This past year, we received incredible support for our mission, notably through a $25 million grant from the Bingham Fund for Excellence in Teaching. Over the next 15 years, this grant will establish Bingham Endowed Chairs for Teaching Excellence. This spring, we announced our first three endowed chairs, recognizing professors whose teaching exemplifies our commitment to exceptional education.
The grant also supports faculty awards, summer liberal arts seminars and a digital learning program to enhance classroom technology. This initiative highlights the importance of excellent teaching, a cornerstone of the Transylvania student experience. I am deeply grateful for this support, which helps our faculty prepare students as lifelong learners and engaged citizens.
Looking ahead, initiatives like the Bingham Center for Teaching Excellence and our collaborative graduate partnerships reinforce our commitment to advancing education. Alumni successes, such as Mariju Bofill’s career in diplomatic service, underscore the impact of Transylvania’s transformative education.
Our educational experience extends beyond the classroom. Professor Alan Bartley’s senior seminar and the accounting department’s free tax preparation projects showcase the meaningful experiences our students gain. The strong connections within our community are evident in stories like those of lifelong friends and faculty members Pat Deacon and Phil Points.
Transylvania’s community continues to grow, welcoming new students, faculty and staff to create exceptional educational experiences and lifelong connections. In a few weeks, we will welcome prospective students to campus, showcasing the unique Transylvania experience as a foundation for successful careers and lives. All high school students are invited to Transylvania’s Summer Fest 2024 to kickstart their college search with fun.
On Aug. 23, new student move-in day marks the beginning of Transylvania’s 244th year. This fall, we also look forward to our new Mitchell Fine Arts performance season, featuring both internationally known artists and local partners. We hope to see you on campus for these exciting events.
As we continue to pass on the light of knowledge and discovery, I hope we can also continue to partner in supporting Transylvania. Your unwavering support and dedication play a crucial role in our ability to provide a transformative educational experience. Together, we can ensure that Transylvania remains a beacon of excellence in higher education.
In Pioneer spirit,
