Off to a Great Start

Dear Students,

Welcome! Whether you are a first-time freshman or a returning student, I hope the semester is off to an excellent start.

I enjoyed addressing our Class of 2017 at the third annual New Student Convocation, which was held on Sunday. And, I had a great time greeting students at Cajun Field on Monday morning. I've heard plenty of positive feedback from students and parents about the success of this semester's move-in days at campus residence halls. A special thanks to all of our student volunteers and staff members who helped make students' transition to campus living a seamless one.

Navigating around construction projects on campus presents ongoing challenges. The improvements enable us to practice the virtues of flexibility and patience. Despite some minor inconveniences, it's an exciting time to be on campus, as we watch the University grow.

Work is continuing at a steady pace on projects that are funded thanks to your support. The Student Union is on course to be completed in December 2014. In another area of campus, the repaving of Sorority Row's parking lot and access streets is nearly complete. Preparations are also being made for changes to St. Mary Boulevard, which will incorporate bicycle lanes and improved pedestrian crossings.

I encourage all of you to participate in Welcome Week activities. Campus leaders gathered on Rex Street Monday to hand out doughnuts and fruit to students on the first day of class.  You are invited to attend Get on Board Day in the Quad on Wednesday to learn about extracurricular activities on campus. I strongly encourage each of you to join an organization or attend performances and other events. Get involved — get connected!

Show your school spirit! The University's annual block party, which will be held at St. Mary Blvd., coincides with College Colors Day. So, this will be a Wear Red Friday like no other.

Finally, I encourage you to become a volunteer. Our University has a distinguished history of community service. This fall, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette will participate in a national day of service, The Big Event, for the first time. This is a volunteer event for students, faculty and staff. It's your chance to reach out, to give of yourself, and be part of something important and meaningful.

For more information about The Big Event, visit bigevent.louisiana.edu.

To each one of you, have a terrific year!

Sincerely,

E. Joseph Savoie
President
president@louisiana.edu