Dr. Rodney S. Hanley, President<\/p>\n
Dear LSSU Alums:<\/p>\n
Spring 2020 is in full swing with commencement activities just around the corner.\u00a0 As the sun reflects off the snow, I am reminded of how bright this past year has been for Lake Superior State University.<\/p>\n
First of all, we are putting the final touches on a new five-year strategic plan for the institution.\u00a0 This plan will outline numerous exciting initiatives that I believe will set the stage for a thriving future for the university.\u00a0 At the core of the new strategic plan is an emphasis on identifying potential, enabling success, driving social mobility, and developing students to be professionally prepared graduates.\u00a0 The new strategic plan is scheduled for final approval in March.<\/p>\n
The Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) project continues to move forward with great momentum.\u00a0 The work site along the St. Marys River has been very active with crews preparing the ground for construction and installation of auger-cast pilings to support the new building.\u00a0 The CFRE project is scheduled for a December 2020 opening, although I must admit I\u2019m hoping for an early spring so construction can continue at full speed.<\/p>\n
I am also pleased to share with you that the university and faculty association have a new three-year agreement.\u00a0 Negotiations took almost a year, but both bargaining teams worked especially hard and landed on an outstanding agreement.\u00a0 I believe this agreement will set the stage for the next 50 years at this institution.<\/p>\n
Several events and activities took place on campus over that last few months, including a statue dedication in honor of Dr. Madan Saluja, recognizing his 50 years of service and dedication to LSSU.\u00a0 The full-length bronze likeness of Dr. Saluja is located in the commons area of R.W. Considine Hall, which houses LSSU\u2019s Lukenda School of Business.\u00a0 Also, for the first time this past fall, LSSU hosted Tibetan Monks from the Drepung Loseling Monastery.\u00a0 The monks held many teaching activities, and I especially enjoyed experiencing a sample of their culture in music, art and lectures. \u00a0My favorite was the mandala sand painting in the Arts Center.<\/p>\n
For the first time in almost 50 years, the Lakers played an NCAA game in Canada.\u00a0 To help grow enthusiasm for Laker hockey, we played one of our home games in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.\u00a0 The Lakers defeated Alabama-Huntsville 4-1 in front of a crowd of more that 3,100 screaming fans.\u00a0 The event was a tremendous success, and we are exploring the idea for this to become an annual event.<\/p>\n
The snow will be melting soon and I look forward to the welcome site of our students walking across the stage in their caps and gowns. \u00a0As always, we appreciate your support of Lake Superior State University!\u00a0 Thank you.<\/p>\n
Superior Education. Superior Experience. Superior YOU!<\/em><\/p>\n Dr. Rodney S. Hanley, President<\/p>\n
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