One of the joys of working in an academic environment is the sense of excitement and anticipation that permeates the beginning of every new semester.  This is my 36th consecutive fall semester (fifteen at MBU) as a faculty member or administrator, and no two have ever felt the same.  Several new developments have contributed to the renewed excitement at MBU.

In spite of a challenging economic environment, we welcomed a record class to MBU and spent much of the summer preparing the campus for their arrival.  Some of the changes included a new roof and patio for Pillsbury-Huff Dormitory, renovation of the chemistry labs, replacement of the baseball and softball backstops,  the addition of retaining walls and landscaping between the library and Field Academic Hall, and the addition of parking.  We will soon begin construction of a new entrance sign and replacement of lighting on the College Park Drive entrance.

One of the most exciting projects ever at MBU is the anticipated construction of a sports and recreation complex. During the summer we completed the final drawings, and we are in the process of obtaining bids on the construction.  The facility is designed to accommodate academic, athletic and student needs and will include aerobic, fitness, classroom and intercollegiate sports facilities.  We also have begun the design process for additional student housing.  Eighty percent of our new students expressed a desire for on-campus housing, and we are able to accommodate only a small number of those.  Currently we have fifteen rooms with three students to a room.  Of course, these problems with growth are good problems to be dealing with.

This fall we inaugurated the Academic Success Center to provide help and direction for students who need extra help adjusting to college-level studies.  Students now have access to additional writing labs and tutoring services to help them in areas where they have difficulty.  Students who are identified as needing extra help sign a contract to participate in sessions designed to help them achieve success in their studies.

Our exercise science program received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.  This, along with program accreditations in sport management, music, education and dual credit, is evidence of the excellence of this program.  Also of historic significance is the admission of our first class of doctoral students this fall.

Like every other institution that serves the public, we are quite concerned about the effect of the H1N1 pandemic on MBU, especially since young people seem to be more susceptible to infection. A special task force developed a response plan for MBU that includes residential facilities and each academic department.  This will allow us to function even in the face of a widespread outbreak.  Also, in the area of health and safety, we certified 140 employees in Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aid.  At least two incidents occurred early in the semester in which employees were able to use their training.

Every semester brings new challenges, but it is sure that at some point a student will experience a light turning on to a new idea, someone will suffer personal loss and will feel the support of the campus community, a student will arrive in tears and will be helped by a faculty or staff member, and a student will come to know Christ.  We are but a small drop in the bucket of higher education, but that small drop can grow into a flood that impacts society.  We are doing what we love most.