President’s Message
Dear JIU Students,
With our June 9 commencement approaching, I have an ideal opportunity to share my thoughts about earning a degree at JIU, whether you’ve just received your degree or are still on the journey.
First, to our graduates: You know full well that getting to this point in your education has required significant sacrifice. If you were to ask your family, your friends, your employer, your professors, and even yourself, “Did I always give you the time and attention you deserve?,” the answer would probably be a loud “no” from at least someone. Yet you persevered, because you had a goal that would not let you rest.
Take a moment to thank those closest to you for their support and understanding. And don’t forget to acknowledge—with pride—the discipline, desire and stubbornness that carried you through the hard work and long hours. Finally, know that your professors and advisors and all of us at JIU are celebrating and supporting your achievement with you.
To our current students, those with still a mile or two to travel: I would urge you to join us June 9 at JIU’s graduation website at http://graduation.jiu.edu. In addition to the commencement ceremony, you’ll find an online yearbook that contains our graduates’ remarks. You will recognize your own experiences in their observations, and almost certainly come away newly inspired to stay the course until you, too, have your degrees in hand.
Congratulations to each of you for your vision and commitment to the future.
Kind regards,
David E. Leasure, PhD
President