Since my appointment as President of WVU , I have worked with hundreds of students, faculty members, and staff who have stepped forward to address the challenges and opportunities which face us as a University. We have accomplished great things togetherand we will continue to do soby focusing on the future of the University.


The essence of all the motions presented in the Senate today contains a clear message: we at WVU must work to create an environment that assures everyone that this will never happen again.


I have also heard from scores of students, from faculty across the university, from staff, from alumni, and from people across this state. Many have voiced their concerns. Others urged me not to allow a climate of anger and confusion to distract us from our mission. Many have urged me to press forward for the good of the university.


But on one thing we are united: We all love this University. We must continue the great work we do for our students and for our state.


The faculty are the heart of the University. Ive said many times before, my faculty mentors are among the people who had great influence on my life.I will continue to work closely with faculty members, particularly those who have already demonstrated a commitment and willingness to work with others across campuses, across disciplines, and across differences of opinion, on each of the challenges that face us.


Our love for this University binds us together in our work.


Our hardest work is ahead.


The Board of Governors has asked me to implement the changes recommended by the committee, and to continue the momentum we have developed on the campuswide and statewide priorities for the past year. It is the work I have been asked to do. It is the work I love to do. It is the work I intend to do.