Each new academic year brings a special energy to NAU and the surrounding community. The possibilities seem endless! Our students are as excited as we are to begin the new year. They are ready to take on the challenges ahead, and we are eager to continue the pursuit of innovation and impact.
We are fortunate to have an outstanding faculty with a deep commitment to educating students and advancing the university’s education and research mission. This year, we are pleased to welcome several new, high-profile researchers who will be working with our already stellar team to expand partnerships, share in the creation of new ideas and capitalize on newfound discoveries. Today’s market thrives on diverse creativity, making partnerships more important than ever in this competitive environment. These new possibilities matter because our research saves lives, protects the environment and provides outstanding learning opportunities for our students, who will one day drive innovation in ways we have yet to imagine. NAU research provides direct and lasting benefits to our community.
We align our academic programs with the needs of our local community and the state. We are expanding our degree options and infrastructure to meet workforce needs, spur innovation and help advance our economy. We know that these investments will align with strong outcomes for our students and the needs of growing industries.
This academic year, we celebrate the successful completion of our “Only at NAU” capital campaign, which has provided critical financial support to individuals and foundations for key priorities. Our supporters, including many of you in the community, funded scholarships that provide affordable education opportunities for our students. We secured prestigious grant awards that have helped make new research opportunities possible, providing resources that are especially needed while we work to rebuild state investments in our public universities. Through our many committed donors, alumni and partners, the campaign ensured a stronger future for NAU and the community we serve. I am grateful for the strong support from our Flagstaff community for helping make our visions a reality.
I am proud of NAU’s accomplishments, and of the contributions we bring to Flagstaff and the world around us. I am proud of the new opportunities we provide to students who join us in Flagstaff, online, on a community campus or through the Personalized Learning program. Never doubt, though, that the foundation and values that have grounded us thus far continue to drive every detail of our efforts today. Our students are our focus, and our community is our motivation.
There are great things ahead, for NAU and for Flagstaff. Together, let’s make this academic year one that inspires and instills confidence for the road ahead. QCBN
By Rita Cheng
