President's Blog: From the Heart

By Eric F. Spina

As Thanksgiving approaches, it feels wonderful to be back home in Dayton after a whirlwind — but very successful — week in China.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it’s about going home — to a place beyond the family table to one in our hearts. It offers us time to slow down, reflect, and give thanks for life’s blessings. It’s also an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to using our gifts and talents to bring hope and unity to our world.

I am filled with gratitude for so much — our curious, passionate students who believe they can change the world — and do; our dedicated and passionate faculty, researchers, and staff who are devoted to educating students and advancing the frontiers of knowledge; our alumni and friends who support our visionary aspirations; and, most of all, to my wonderful family.

May the bonds of community — on campus, in our families, and across our world — grow deeper, and our tables more welcoming. That’s my prayer this Thanksgiving.

From our family to yours, Karen, Kaitlyn, Emery, and I wish each of you a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, joy — and all of God’s graces.