|
|
Summer 2004
Lakeviews
Reflections and Celebrations
The end of the academic year gives way to summer in the Finger Lakes as
well as a moment to reflect on some of the events of the past year and
what they mean in the context of our work and lives at Hobart and William
Smith. In this edition of the Survey, you’ll read, among other things,
about three of these events: the dedication of the Salisbury Center at
Trinity Hall, Commencement and Reunion. These three events took place
independent of one another, but all provide us with the chance to reflect
upon and honor the past, bolster our vision for the future of the Colleges
and celebrate the engagement of our talented faculty, committed staff,
students, alumni and alumnae and friends of Hobart and William Smith.
 |
|
President Gearan congratulates Rhodes Scholar Julia
James ’04 at Commencement 2004.
|
The dedication of the new Salisbury Center signifies a rebirth of Trinity
Hall, the second oldest building on this campus. We are grateful to our
lead donor Board of Trustees Chair Charles H. Salisbury Jr. ’63,
P’94 for taking care to honor the structure’s rich past, dating
back to 1837. The building was transformed into a place that will, in
turn, transform the lives of students who pass through its doors as they
seek connections with the offices of Career Services, Public Service,
Global Education and Pre-Professional programs. As Professor Jack Harris
stated at the dedication of the Salisbury Center: “Charlie Salisbury
provided inspired leadership and vision in breathing new life and new
uses into Trinity Hall. How grand this old building has become because
of Charlie’s generous gift to his alma mater. This grand old building
invites the next generations of students to engage in off campus study,
to perform public service and to achieve a vocation worthy of their liberal
arts education.”
Commencement 2004 was a joyous celebration for the 424 graduates and
their families. It was a privilege to hand diplomas to students who will
utilize their liberal arts education for lives of meaning and productivity.
Graduating seniors go off to professional graduate schools in law, medicine,
dentistry, veterinary science and business. They embark for graduate programs
in science, humanities and social sciences. Many will immediately enter
the work force in business, education and social services. The Colleges
recognized the professional accomplishments and service of five honorary
degree recipients – holding out their lives to the graduates as
worthy of note.
And finally, Reunion Weekend once again reaffirmed the importance of
alums in our successful efforts to enhance the Colleges among the nation’s
top liberal arts institutions. More than 800 graduates returned to Geneva
from 38 states. A chance to reflect, reacquaint and renew old friendships,
Reunion reminds us of where we came from and where we are now. The Classes
of ’64 made history in securing the resources of $1.5 million to
endow a professorship. Along with the other classes returning for Reunion,
they provide a wonderful testament to the enduring affection that our
alumni and alumnae feel for this very special place.
In addition to these three articles, I encourage you to read about other
examples of honoring, vision and engagement throughout this edition of
The Pulteney St. Survey. From our alums who have gone into the teaching
profession to Trustee L. Thomas Melly ’52, L.H.D. ’02 whose
leadership gift of $7.5 million to address the priorities of the Colleges
is an inspiration to all, to the parents of current students who have
dedicated themselves to this institution – bring into clear focus
the vibrancy of those who are connected with Hobart and William Smith.
I wish you an enjoyable summer and encourage you to visit campus should
your travels bring you to the beautiful Finger Lakes region.
Mark D. Gearan
President
|
