I am pleased to welcome you, the Class of 2008, to what will be your home for the next four years. We are fortunate that you are joining us, and I look forward to greeting you in person soon. You come to Washington University at a wonderful time in our history.

We have just concluded a very special year celebrating the 150th anniversary of the founding of Washington University. The theme for the 150th year was “Treasuring the Past. Shaping the Future.” Now we are in a new era in our history, and you will contribute significantly to shaping the future of the University, the community around us, and our world.

At the heart of every great university are its students, and we welcome you with enthusiasm as our newest community members. We are here to nurture your intellectual, emotional, and social growth. It is my hope that over the next four years you will learn and experience the power of a research university by taking part in the creation and dissemination of new knowledge. Your work will enhance your involvement with our great faculty and stimulate your own creativity. Even more important, this new knowledge can bring valuable benefits to society. Of course, you will be involved in learning what others know in your classes and other academic activities, but being a contributor to new knowledge adds to your intellectual development in vital ways and is a key element of the student experience at a research university.

Washington University is a community of people dedicated to a world of learning without intellectual bounds, a place where the only limitations on ideas are those that you place on yourselves. The faculty and staff of Washington University, along with your upper-class colleagues, welcome you to this world and ask for your help in making it an even better place. You will meet and establish rewarding friendships with many new people, and our diverse community will enhance your educational experience. Your education begins in our classrooms, studios, and labs, but it extends quickly to the many and varied opportunities for personal and social growth and service to the community.

Looking ahead, on Friday, Oct. 8, Washington University will host an internationally televised presidential debate. This is an historic event of great significance to our country, our community and to the University, but it will bring with it some challenges in regard to traffic patterns and security on the day of the event. Please know that many people are working hard to make sure that this event will be as successful and safe as possible. I hope you will find ways to get involved and learn more about this critical election, and I certainly encourage you to register to vote!

Again, welcome to Washington University! Welcome to the beginning of your future, and best wishes for continued success in our community of learning and discovery.

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Wrighton is the chancellor of Washington University. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].

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