Reflecting on the Close of the Semester

As I walk through our vibrant campus, now reflecting on the end of another academic year, I am continually reminded of the extraordinary community we have built together.

Wilmington College is not just a place of academic pursuit; it is a nurturing ground where lifelong friendships are formed and personal growth is fostered. This sense of community thrives when we are truly present, fully engaged with each other and our surroundings.

Be present where your feet are—I often remind myself. In the busyness of academic life, it is all too easy to get lost in the shuffle. We may find ourselves thinking ahead to the next task, the next class, the next meeting, or milestone, seldom taking a moment to truly appreciate the present. This constant forward-thinking can prevent us from experiencing and enjoying the world in front of us.

Being fully present allows us to connect on a deeper level. It enriches our learning, strengthens our relationships, and enhances our overall well-being. When we are present, we listen more intently, think more clearly, and respond more thoughtfully.

At Wilmington College, our students embody this principle beautifully. Every day, I witness how they immerse themselves in their studies, participate passionately in campus activities and athletics, and support one another through challenges.

This was vividly demonstrated on May 2, 2024, during Community Day—a tradition of the past, brought back to celebrate the end of the academic year. The entire campus buzzed with excitement as students, faculty, and staff engaged in a multitude of games, friendly competitions, and activities, each reflecting the unique spirit of togetherness that defines Wilmington College. A typically quiet Collett Mall transformed in one afternoon into a flurry of laughter, music, and joy, as we connected and celebrated.

Students enjoying Community Day, 2024

It is events like Community Day in May that underscore importance of being present with those around us and highlight the profound impact of our collective community spirit.

What a way to close the year in celebration of our beloved “Dub-C.”

And now that we are well into June (how is that possible?), it is my hope that students, staff, and faculty are enjoying the summer sunshine, taking a well-deserved break before we reconvene for the fall semester—present wherever their feet may be. 😊

In peace and gratitude,

Corey