As I look back on the 2001-02 academic year, nothing defines its start better than Founders’ Day, the ceremonial time during which we say, “Welcome to Buena Vista University.”

It’s the day when our new students arrive on campus, move into their residence halls, and experience a buzz of excitement as they embark on their journey of intellectual exploration and discovery.

The start of that journey is symbolized with one of BVU’s richest traditions, when the new students march through the Victory Arch on their way to the Convocation ceremony in Schaller Memorial Chapel. The next time these students formally pass through that Arch will be at their graduation, transformed into lifelong learners prepared for leadership and service in their professions and in their communities, thanks to the University’s bold vision of what an education should be.

So picture a long line of new students passing two-by-two through the Arch and then to the chapel steps through a corridor formed by faculty members, who applaud the first student to the last in a very open gesture that tells each and every student that he or she is important.

I was struck that day with a feeling of familiarity, due to the wonderful, comforting cadence that marks the progression of our academic year. Yet, along with our students, I also felt the excitement and anticipation of a fresh start — because, after all, each academic year unfolds as a unique experience, with its own set of surprises, opportunities, and challenges.

Indeed, I was soon to find that this academic year would bring remarkable events exceeding anyone’s imagination…