As we celebrate the completion of another academic year and welcome new graduates into our community of nearly 60,000 alumni, I am reminded of how Valpo’s climb toward excellence never ends.
By exploring our rich history, our distinctive character and unwavering mission are revealed more clearly — a mission to prepare graduates to lead and serve with a sense of both head and heart as they mature into global citizens and leaders.
This issue of VALPO magazine explores common memories, events, and traditions that have shaped our history. Remember beanies? Songfest? Palm Sunday in the Chapel? Or Opening Convocation and Commencement? Reminisce about your days spent in a freshman residence hall (or “dormitory” back in the day), in a sorority or fraternity, in a choir or orchestra, or in competition alongside fellow student-athletes. Rediscover these familiar traditions and learn about the University’s history through 20 iconic objects. Collectively, these objects represent more than artifacts of yesteryear. It is through considering these objects that the arc of Valpo’s story takes shape, and we find ourselves connected to one another in a community that transcends time, geography, and demography.
Read about Valpo’s commitment to civil rights, both past and present, through faculty and alumni accounts of the University’s trips to Alabama to advocate for social justice and equality. This issue will also remind you of your undergraduate years, when the University Guild sent you unexpected care packages and enriched your experience by financially supporting student organizations, upgrading lab equipment, providing scholarship support, and much more.
While this issue celebrates our past, you will notice that it also includes added features and enhancements. With spotlights featuring alumni, highlights from Valpo Clubs across the country, and new photo spreads, I hope this magazine not only provides updates about campus life and University initiatives, but also reminds you of the Valpo community in which you are always at home.
Enjoy this issue of VALPO magazine. Thank you and may God bless you for all you do to support Valparaiso University.
Sincerely,
Mark A. Heckler, Ph.D.
President
Valparaiso University