November 22, 2017
Dear Family and Friends of Saint Augustine’s University,
Like you, each year at this time I take a few moments to reflect on all I have to be thankful for, especially
family, friends, and good health. This Thanksgiving is particularly meaningful for me as the University
celebrates its 150th anniversary.
This week’s celebration of Thanksgiving is a reminder to us to be grateful for the many gifts that we have
received. Thanksgiving offers a special opportunity to reflect on our blessings, and to recommit ourselves
to using our gifts to benefit our broader society and world, while transforming the lives of our students,
and ourselves by this important work. I am grateful to our trustees, alumni, benefactors, and friends who
partner with us to live out our mission here at Saint Augustine’s University to always put students first.
Every time I walk across campus and talk to our students, I am struck by their passion and perseverance.
They come to this university with a dream of creating a better future for themselves and their families,
and for our world. They are committed to excellence in their educational pursuits and improving society
through their professions, their talents and their leadership.
Our students are remarkable for their dedication to their education and for their commitment to creating a
better world. We should all feel so confident about the future, knowing this is our next generation of leaders.
This holiday season, and year-round, I am so thankful for all of our students, and to everyone who has
made a commitment to help them succeed. On Thanksgiving Day as we gather with family and friends
let’s be reminded of the following scripture from Romans: The Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we
eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. – Romans 14:17 (NLT)
I wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving and the very best at this special time of year.
In the interest of Saint Augustine’s University, I remain,
Sincerely,
Everett B. Ward, Ph.D.
President, Saint Augustine’s University
