Dear Marietta College Students:

Thank you for being part of Marietta College and for the energy you have brought to campus! I am enjoying meeting many of you for the first time, and reconnecting with those of you who have returned. I appreciate your warm welcome and greetings when we cross paths on campus or when we meet at the many events being held on campus. Those events provide just a glimpse of the countless opportunities Marietta College will give you over the next few months to get engaged, learn, and have fun inside and outside the classroom.

As this academic year began, you may have seen our motto “Bring Forth a Pioneer” on campus banners or mailings, or you may have heard many of us talking about it. It represents our students so well — bold thinkers ready to confront any challenge; independent spirits who inspire and lead others. I encourage you to live by this motto. As students, that is especially important given the many challenges that accompany attending college and preparing for your career.

If you face one of those challenges, please know that you are not alone. Everyone at Marietta College is willing to help you — it is partly why we are here. It’s also one of the reasons you’ll find that Marietta College is the right place for you. In addition to reaching out to faculty, staff, your fellow students, your coaches, your advisor, or a resident advisor, you can reach out to me or any of those on the list below.

  • Office of Admission (Admission House)
  • Office of Financial Aid (Irvine Hall)
  • Office of Academic Affairs (Irvine Hall)
  • Marietta College Counseling Center (Health and Wellness Office in Harrison Hall)
  • Worthington Center for Teaching and Learning (Legacy Library)
  • Office of Student Affairs (Andrews Hall)

Your time here will pass all too quickly. So, please make the most of it. Embrace the many opportunities to work collaboratively with our talented faculty. Those will help you develop your unique skills, open new doors, help you discover your passion, and give you the confidence to make a difference here and in the world.

Our motto also reminds you that “Now is the Time.” Now is that time to join something that interests you; something you’re familiar with or that will expand your horizons. Those include joining academic or athletic activities on campus; auditioning for a play or the choir, joining an academic club, rushing a fraternity or sorority, or staring a workout regimen at the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center. At Marietta, you get to blaze a new trail.

Along with having fun, academics are important. If you face any challenges inside a class, please reach out to your professor or the Academic Resource Center. Marietta College has professionals on staff who are here to help you adjust to your schedule and work with you to develop new or better study habits.

I am excited that you have chosen Marietta College and I look forward to continuing to get to know you and join you in your amazing academic year.

Bring forth a Pioneer!

Bill Ruud
President and Professor of Management