November 23, 2016
Dear Marietta College Family:
My first semester at Marietta College is almost complete and the Thanksgiving holiday is upon us. It has been a very active, exciting, and productive semester and shortly, a calm will come over campus as we participate in the entire holiday season — Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and many other celebrations.
This time of year gives me an opportunity to pause and contemplate how grateful I am that you have welcomed Judy and me into the Marietta College community — and that we are now part of each other’s lives and this amazing institution. We have made great strides at Marietta College, and the future looks as bright as ever. I treasure this opportunity to express just some of the things for which I am thankful.
As a community, we are privileged to have such professional, dedicated, and talented faculty and staff. In a short time, I have learned a great deal from you. Your commitment to our students and higher education regularly reminds us that the education we provide Marietta College benefits individuals, and the greater society. I know your educational impact will continue to make the College, the Marietta community and the world very proud. Thank you!
Our students provide an effervescence and energy that enhances our beautiful campus. Every day I am impressed with your hard work, creativity and passion to better your life and the lives of those around you. I have watched and enjoyed as you won a big game, succeeded on an exam, performed with the band, helped a fellow student, volunteered in the community, or made an internship presentation. Every instance makes me more proud of you and your impact on Marietta College, and our greater community. I am thankful to be witnessing the development of true leaders who will graduate and change the world. Thank you!
It is inspirational and gratifying to see our alumni engaging with the College. Your stories of Marietta and what you have done in the intervening years since you graduated are inspiring. Words cannot express how much everyone at Marietta College appreciates your time, talent and support of your alma mater. It has been an honor to meet so many of you at regional association gatherings and on campus during Homecoming weekend, at the inauguration, or as you pass through Marietta. Keep coming back. We love seeing you. Thank you!
The support and trust that Judy and I have enjoyed is a big reason why Marietta has felt like home since the day we arrived. For that, I am most grateful to our Board of Trustees and MCAA Board, who have provided sound advice and loyal backing of Marietta College. Thank you!
Judy, Fuzzy, and I wish you and your family peace and cheer during Thanksgiving and all year round. I look forward to seeing our students, faculty, and staff when we return from the holiday break to complete the final three weeks of the fall semester.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Bill Ruud