There is a most compelling characteristic that I witness within the Florida Atlantic University DNA. It is a strong willingness and desire to reach out a helping hand to the underserved. I am very inspired by this genuine spirit of generosity.

We are the most diverse university in Florida and 27th most diverse in this country. Many universities have difficulty embracing this convergence of cultures, but we are choosing to gladly, openly embrace it and celebrate it. Just within the last couple of weeks we have expressed our clear intent to assist undocumented residents as equals, with the same rights to furthering their education. We have an athletics department that sees its role in academic success as equal to its role in athletic success. At our recent Making Waves Gala, we raised more than $500,000 to provide support for veterans who served this country and first-generation college students who will be role models for their family generations to come. And at our celebration of the School of Social Work, we heard compelling stories of lives that have been changed through the mentorship of our faculty.

Each day I become ever more inspired about the vast potential for Florida Atlantic University to achieve its rightful role as a great national university.