Dear LSSU Alumni & Friends,
Hello to everyone from beautiful snowy Sault Ste. Marie! The recent snow has transformed the campus into a magical winter wonderland and I truly feel fortunate to live here. As a snow lover, I’m a kid again every time it snows especially during the early part of winter and the holidays. LSSU has one of the snowiest campuses in the United States being in the top five in total snowfall each year. Although some may not be thrilled with that idea, there are many that would enjoy the experience of being a part of this annual snow globe. As we look at ways to promote this university, I believe we have a competitive advantage regarding the climate of this area (not a disadvantage!). We need to utilize this opportunity more aggressively and we will.
Another advantage that I have realized in my short time here is the success and tireless commitment of our amazing alumni. As I’ve gotten out in the community and around the state, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many former Lakers who speak with pride and appreciation about their time here and the impact that it had on them both personally and professionally. We have alumni spread all over the country and in numerous countries around the world. They carry with them a great sense of Laker pride that spills out the moment they have a chance to reflect on their time here. What has impressed me the most is that many of our alums are leaders in their places of work. They serve as managers, directors, CEOS, and even presidents while serving as decision-makers, role models and development leaders within their own places of employment. This is a testament to not only the excellent knowledge preparation that they received while they were here but also to the work ethic, professionalism, and drive to continue learning that was instilled in them as Lakers. I’ve always said that the true test of a great university is what type of leaders it produces. LSSU has a lot to be proud of in that regard.
Recently, I was fortunate to participate in my first Great Lake State Weekend. This special weekend included welcoming back hundreds of our alumni to campus. Beyond celebrating their impressive accomplishments, the best part for me was watching people reconnect after not having seen each other for many years or even decades in some cases. Their stories about going downtown to relieve stress and “get into a little bit of trouble”, all-night study parties, and “naughty cheers at the hockey games” were a blast to listen to as they reminisced and laughed just like it was old times. There were also a lot of stories about snowball fights, ice-skating, and surviving famous blizzards with promises to “always be available if you need me.” This included a willingness to help out the university during difficult times with several people asking me directly, “what can I do to help?” I’m very appreciative of those that have stepped up recently to provide their support. Any additional help is greatly appreciated right now.
There is something special about being a student at LSSU that brings people together as life-long friends and a willingness to give back. Maybe it’s the hands-on learning that often forces students to rely upon each other and work as a team to solve problems. Maybe it’s the fact that many of our students come from small towns and are first-generation learners. They rely upon each other to learn how to become successful college students and then eventually become transformed into confident graduates ready to get that first job. Maybe it’s the dedication of our professors and other staff members to try and make your time here as valuable as possible. Or maybe it’s just all that heavy snow!
No matter what it is, this university has done well in helping to prepare this generation of leaders and is committed to continue creating the next generation. Congratulations to all of our alums and, in particular, those were recognized at this year’s Great Lake State Weekend. We are very proud of you.
Dr. David Travis
President