Note: This message was originally sent on May 9, 2023
Some major milestones were celebrated within just a week of each other—the 75th anniversary of the Bulldog Battalion ROTC program at Gonzaga and launch of the Military Service Community, and the 25th anniversary of the Unity Multicultural Education Center and associated red carpet unveiling of the new UMEC Unity mural in the Hemmingson Center. Both events represented significant priorities for our community: service and diversity. Deeply rooted in our mission, supporting those who serve and our shared humanity with each other are at the core of not just what we do here but who we are and the direction in which we move. I was blessed to hear both General Daly (former professor of military science at GU) and Danielle Cendejas (’04) deliver keynote addresses at these events and their messages were clear: Gonzaga University is a place where good people do good work, and that must never stop.
It was not lost on any of us that General Daly, whose remarks at Gonzaga’s military ball commemorated his last official responsibility prior to his retirement from the US Army, spent his entire time at the podium recognizing those who were in attendance. From members of the Class of 1958, alumni from the 80s, 90s and so on, all the way to our soon to be graduates, General Daly acknowledged their service, what they mean to the communities they have served and will serve. His speech was an incredibly powerful demonstration of servant leadership, which he declared is very much thriving at GU.
Danielle too spoke to a crowded room of students, (current and former) staff and faculty and alumni. She delivered a powerful reflection of her Gonzaga experience and where her leadership skills have taken her since graduating (helping shape national politics and campaigns). She closed out by speaking very directly to our students. She reminded everyone that throughout our history, we have witnessed progress and backlash. She shared some inspiration which informs her mindset, something she learned from attending Mass as a student, a wise Jesuit always reminded her that we will see the light after darkness. Danielle leaned in to the crowd and declared that light is this generation of students. “I hope you continue to use your voice. I ask that you stay engaged with UMEC and Gonzaga and help lift as you climb. I encourage you to go out into the world and make an impact. And when you make your money, give back to your roots that UMEC helped nurture as part of your legacy. Let's start investing in the next 25 years today.” 😊
And to those years ahead….. Even with the end of the semester and academic year on the horizon, your friends at Gonzaga University are working and thinking well beyond the festivities of this week. We are laser focused to ensure that together, we will not just continue in the pursuit of our mission, but we will thrive in this work to improve the world. Here’s evidence of the work in action, from yesterday morning’s town hall meeting with myself, President McCulloh, and Provost Kopp, collaborating with Gonzaga faculty and staff on the updates to the University’s strategic plan. THAT’S an 8:30 am meeting on a Monday about strategic planning…..check out the crowd! I hope our enthusiasm is contagious and that you’re looking forward to experiencing these plans transform and operationalize for the benefit of our collective future. Your generosity, support, spirit and care have brought us this far—with you, this force for good will continue to lead the way!