Thank you!
I’m still over the moon after last week’s three joyful Commencement ceremonies (take a look at the photo albums to see the excitement!) It was an honor to award more than 700 degrees to our newest graduates, including presenting an honorary doctorate of humane letters to Shanola Hampton, our award-winning theatre alumna and possibly the most energetic and gracious person that I’ve met in a very long time. Her time spent with our theatre students last Friday afternoon, with fans who posed questions and took photos Friday evening, and with the Class of 2025, to whom she directed her fantastic Commencement address Saturday morning, clearly demonstrated how much she loves this place. She was very candid about what Winthrop did for her and how her time here shaped and nurtured her confidence and prepared her to do the work that has gotten her where she is today. Hearing her speak just re-emphasized to me our purpose for being here: to prepare our students to be their best and most successful selves (whatever that looks like for each student). Thanks to the planning committee that flawlessly organized and executed her visit, which she called the best coordinated one she has ever experienced.
So now that we’re on the other side of Commencement, I wanted to take a few moments to say thank you for all that we have accomplished together this academic year. I am grateful for each and every one of you. From the hard work of our students, faculty and staff to the loyalty and support of our alumni and donors, we have much to celebrate. I’d like to share a few items with you below:
Task Force Website
In my April 21 campus update email, I brought everyone up to speed on activities over the last few months in response to federal and state policies that could impact Winthrop. I noted that we formed a task force to devise an action plan that relates to diversity, equity and inclusion. The task force is focused on four action items. As promised, a webpage was developed to reflect updates on the task force’s efforts and the timing of legislative action. I encourage you to visit this new website frequently to stay updated on the task force’s progress. Thank you to all who have put time and energy into this important work.
Office Moves
A few offices are temporarily relocating to new spaces this summer to accommodate renovations. The Admissions team has moved out of Joynes and can be found in the following areas: The Recruitment Team (admissions counselors) is in Bancroft Annex, and the Operations, Transfer, and Dual Enrollment Teams are in 304 Tillman. Daily visit presentations and tours will originate in Dina’s Place, and two staff members will be stationed in 258 DIGS.
During May 21-22, the Center for Student Wellness, also located in Joynes, is moving to Roddey. Health Services, Counseling Services, Student Advocacy and Trauma Support, and Health Promotion will be located on the first floor of Roddey. The Admissions and Student Wellness teams should return to Joynes in December once renovations are completed.
Sports News
As the sports seasons wind down, there are several items of good news to share. Following one of the women’s basketball program’s most successful seasons in recent years, Head Coach Semeka Randall Lay received a contract extension through the 2027-28 season. In addition, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Mark Prosser also received a contract extension through the 2028-29 season after the program posted its second 20-win season under his leadership.
Head Baseball Coach Mike McGuire earned his 500th NCAA coaching victory last month, the program captured its 1,400th all-time victory, and pitcher Connor Harris has been named a finalist for the inaugural 2025 Tony Gwyn Trophy. In softball news, Megan Powell was voted Conference Player of the Year and Tia Beckham the Conference Newcomer of the Year. The lacrosse team had four players named to the All-Conference team. In men’s golf, Jeff Nelson was named the Conference Newcomer of the Year. On the track, Brianna Breau set a new school record in the women’s javelin throw, and, finally, former standout sprinter Octavia Goode ’04 will be inducted into the Big South Conference Hall of Fame later this month.
Summer Schedule Underway
As we all transition to summer hours this week (M-TH 8-5:30 and F 8-11:30 through Aug. 15), I want to make you aware of an option for weeklong casual dress, or what I am personally going to observe as Garnet & Gold Summer. This approach is basically the option of wearing casual shirts and shoes, jeans and other casual pants (including work-appropriate shorts and capris), summer dresses/skirts, etc. Winthrop T-shirts and other gear is acceptable and encouraged. You can find apparel in the Winthrop Bookstore or online at shopwinthropeagles.com and shopwinthropgear.merchorders.com. If you prefer to continue with your normal work attire, that is perfectly fine as well.
Orientation Sessions
A final thanks to our Student Affairs and Admissions teams and others across campus who are getting ready to welcome our newest class of Eagles and get them ready for the Winthrop experience this fall! We cannot wait to welcome every student who has signed up for Orientation, and I know you will make them feel at home and part of the family while they are here. Sessions will be held June 10-11, June 16-17, June 19-20, June 26 (transfer), Aug. 7 (transfer), and Aug. 20-21. If you see new students and their families on campus, please give them a warm Winthrop welcome.
While there is much to be excited about as indicated above, I hope you’re able to use some time this summer to recharge. Please know that I appreciate all you do for Winthrop!
Edward
Edward Serna
President
