The final week of the Spring Quarter is always full and exciting. This one was no exception. We had special events distributed throughout the week starting with three on Monday: a question & answer session with the University Senate in the Pressbox & Suites, a special lighting ceremony for the Lady of the Mist, and the President’s Midnight Breakfast. On Tuesday, Kathy and I hosted the spring faculty & staff appreciation luncheon.  I believe that about 700 faculty & staff showed up in the Tonk to enjoy some fellowship and some excellent barbeque. On Thursday, we had a meeting of the University Foundation Board where my leadership team and I provided progress updates on campus projects and activities. Our Foundation Board has played a pivotal role in advancing so many initiatives for the institution and we are most grateful for their strong support. Thursday evening was a highlight of the week, an appreciation dinner for our major benefactors in the DAC. We had an outstanding turnout and recognized both J.N. & Ruth Walpole of Ruston with the Tower Medallion and induction into Tech’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni. We also recognized Dr. Tara Haskins of our Nursing faculty with the University Foundation Professorship. Another highlight of the evening was the presentation by two of our engineering students, Riley Luttgeharm and John Aguillard, who made an impressive presentation about their activities with the Aerospace Club. I followed with a presentation highlighting several of our outstanding students who have been involved in some unparalleled interdisciplinary learning experiences in our courses, laboratories and student activities. And Friday has been largely focused on preparing for Saturday’s spring commencement. For the first time, we will be splitting commencement into two exercises, one in the morning and one late afternoon. We will have a record number of Spring commencement graduates and I know this will be one of the best days of the year for all of us! Throughout the week, I had many opportunities to visit with our students, faculty and staff. Here are a few of my favorite pics for the week: