Hello Faculty and Instructional Academic Staff! The first day of classes is always a beautiful day—the sun is shining and the students are filling up the classrooms in person and online.  This fall we have a lot to celebrate.  The retention of our first-year class saw an increase of over 3% compared to the previous year. This is in large part because of the many hours a week they are interacting with you. As we settle into the routine of the semester, opportunities abound.  We are starting off strong with efforts around our 2023-28 Strategic Plan. We look to continue our trendlines in enrollment and retention. We can help individual students through shared tools like Navigate for advising.  And speaking of opportunities, please check out the 2023-24 Teaching and Learning Grants for ways that I can support you as you continue to pursue new avenues.  I wish you an enjoyable year filled with success.  Your talents and time are gifts that make this university the amazing place it is.  Thank you for the value you add every day.