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Hi Buffs,ÌýÌý

Welcome to a new academic year! Whether you are joining the Buff community for the first time or returning for another semester, I am delighted to welcome you to campus.Ìý

This year is particularly meaningful as ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ celebrates its 150th anniversary. For a century and a half, students have come to this university to learn, discover new passions, build lasting friendships and prepare to make a difference in the world. Today, you are part of that legacy. The experiences you have, relationships you build and contributions you make will help shape the next chapter of ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ.Ìý

Make this year your ownÌý

College is about much more than earning a degree. It is a time to discover your interests, develop your strengths, build meaningful relationships, and learn more about who you are and who you want to become.Ìý

Every student gets to experience college for themselves and that is one of the greatest strengths of a vibrant university community. Whether you decide to enrich your journey by joining or starting a student organization, attending a campus event, pursuing research, taking on a leadership role, working on campus or volunteering, each experience helps shape your time at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ in meaningful ways.Ìý

I encourage you to be curious this year. Explore something new. Ask questions. Meet someone different from you. Say yes to an opportunity that may be outside your comfort zone. Often, the moments that become most meaningful begin with a simple decision to get involved.Ìý

Celebrate 150 years togetherÌý

As we celebrate this important milestone, I also invite you to take part in the traditions and experiences that bring Buffs together.Ìý

One event I encourage you to consider is the Buffs Long Table, where students, faculty and staff gather to share a meal and conversation. It reflects something I value deeply about ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ: the power of relationships and the importance of creating opportunities for us to learn from one another and build a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Be sure to to attend!

Student Life is here for youÌý

Wherever this year leads you, our entire Division of Student Life is here to support, champion and empower you. Our teams are dedicated to helping you succeed both inside and outside the classroom through programs, services and experiences that support your well-being, involvement, leadership and personal growth.Ìý

You do not need to have everything figured out when you arrive. In fact, we hope you don't! College is your time, Buffs. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, challenge your own assumptions and preconceived notions, and discover what matters to you as find your way. Make new friends. Attend a campus event. Stop by one of our spaces. Introduce yourself to a staff member. Reach out when you have a question or need support. We are here to listen, help you navigate and connect you with the people and resources that can help you reach your goals.Ìý

Looking aheadÌý

Every class of Buffs leaves its mark on this university, and the incoming class of 2026 will also do just that. As we celebrate 150 years of history, I am excited to see the ways you will shape the future of ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ through your ideas, experiences, leadership and contributions to our community.Ìý

Thank you for being part of our community. I hope this year brings you opportunities to discover something new, build meaningful connections, find your sense of belonging and grow into the person you aspire to be.Ìý

Sko Buffs!Ìý

Warmly,Ìý

Dr. D'Andra MullÌý
Vice Chancellor for Student LifeÌý