President Wippman’s Writings & Remarks

Welcome!

August 23, 2023

Tags Public Statements

Dear Members of the Hamilton Community,

A two-century-old college has many traditions, including the long-standing practice of welcoming new students with music, signs, and tasteful costumes as they drive up College Hill Road. Even as we celebrate the arrival of our new students, we also welcome many new employees and welcome back all those returning for another academic year.

In joining this community, we inherit other traditions that have formed over many years, notably commitments to academic rigor, open and respectful dialogue, generosity of spirit, and the transformative promise of a liberal arts education. Our diverse experiences and backgrounds are vital as we seek to embrace those traditions and fulfill Hamilton’s mission: preparing our students for lives of meaning, purpose, and active citizenship.

Hamilton offers the opportunity to know one’s self better through the life-changing experience of a residential, liberal arts education. Whether one’s role here is as student, teacher, or staff member, it is our collective effort that makes the College work. In my final year at Hamilton, I look forward to working with all of you to advance our shared mission and, in the process, perhaps even to start some new traditions.

Best wishes for a productive and rewarding semester.

David