Welcome back! I hope everyone had a restful holiday, and valued time with family and friends over the holiday break. A sincere thank you for all the kind words and help as I transition into this new role. I would like to specifically offer words of gratitude to Rick and Joan Artman for their support and advice over the last several months during the transition.

We welcome employees and students to campus this week who are new to our community. An employee mission orientation was held on Jan. 9 for employees hired over the last several months. We anticipate over 50 new transfer students starting this spring, one new freshman, and many new graduate and adult students who begin their educational paths in January. Please join me in welcoming them to Viterbo, and introducing yourself in the coming weeks.   

On Monday, Jan. 30 the Board of Trustees will meet on campus. The action items for the board includes approval of the preliminary budget guidelines for 2017–18 and consideration of a proposal for the continued development of a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics. There will be a University Forum on Thursday, Feb. 2 from 3:30–4:30 p.m. to review the outcomes of the board meeting and provide an update on the enrollment census numbers. 

My best wishes for a wonderful semester.

Glena Temple