Note: This message was originally sent on July 24, 2023
In clusters, they walk around wide-eyed, learning the locations of where lifelong friendships may launch. This is the first year of Gonzaga’s new summer orientation model, and from what I’ve seen — so far, so good! These new Zags are conceptualizing their class schedules and determining daily routines. They’re experiencing the first tastes of what makes Gonzaga distinctive and discovering how delicious the next chapter of their lives will be. They’re gathering in groups to learn about academic majors, living the mission, and “(Well) Being your Best Bulldog,” and much more. Oh, what so many of us wouldn’t give to be back in their shoes for only a few moments!
But from where I sit today, I see these incoming students as the reason why we do what we do. They’re who we strive to support and who we see as the Jesuit educated leaders of tomorrow. They are why we must ensure Gonzaga University has a solid future, and I am so gratified to know that you are accompanying us in the work to do just that. Even more, they are the examples for yet another generation of future Zags — these pictures were taken by two local students and prospective Zags exploring campus — both sophomores, Sienna from Coeur d’Alene High School, and Victor from University High School. As Sienna and Victor witnessed these first moments of Zag life unfolding in front of them and felt campus come to life under the warm Spokane summer sun, hopefully something within them will spark, igniting the fires of inspiration that have gripped generations of Zags before them and propelled them toward the academic, spiritual, personal, and professional achievements your generosity and dedication have helped empower.
Cheers to the class of 2027 (and Sienna and Victor’s possible GU class of 2030, too!) and all the incredible discoveries, connections, learning and life that lies ahead for them!