Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:
As classes ended last week and final exams conclude today, we are officially closing another chapter in Old Dominion University’s storied history. And, later this week, we will join together to celebrate the notable achievements of our newest group of Monarch alumni. Without question, this is one of my favorite times of the year as the passion, pride, and purpose of another successful semester are evident on the faces of so many. As we prepare to engage in Commencement ceremonies this Friday and Saturday, I want to remind all Monarchs that this is a very special moment in the lives of the Class of 2023 and their loved ones. As such, I ask for your collegiality and respect for each other and our guests during these academic events.
Looking back, the 2022-2023 academic year brought much change, excitement, and growth to our campus community. Several highlights include the establishment of stand-alone operations and outreach of both Digital Learning and University Communications; kick-off to Monarchs Give Back representing a campus-wide food collection to benefit Hampton Roads children experiencing food insecurity; launch of a comprehensive campaign to secure $500 million in funding for our institution, our programs, and our students; initial implementation of our five-year strategic plan; continued work on the Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) integration; grand opening of the Hampton Roads Biomedical Research Consortium, or HRBRC, at the Tri-Cities Center; the first-ever Maritime Symposium; and initial convening of a Budget Summit to bring awareness and transparency to our budget processes and future planning, just to name a few. With the individual talents and collective commitment of our amazing students, world-class faculty, and dedicated staff, I am confident that our next academic year will bring this same level of engagement and progress.
Following a recent visit by a review committee through our regional accreditor, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, or SACSCOC, our history of excellence and pursuit of success have been reviewed and reaffirmed. Looking ahead, our next chapter will be defined by our integration with EVMS becoming a reality and the development of a 10-year master plan to ensure that we are better equipped to respond to the ever-changing needs of current and future generations of Monarchs. As we enter the summer months, I wish each and every Monarch an enjoyable, relaxing, and safe time with loved ones. I am confident that we will all return to campus rested and ready for the next phase of our continued journey together!
With Monarch Pride,
Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President