Thanks for being a part of my years at IU

Congratulations to all students completing their degree this weekend. You and I are closing this chapter of our experiences at IU at the same time, but it took me a lot more years than you to get to this date.

As you reflect back on how you have changed since you first came to campus, I hope you can appreciate the impact your IU experience has had on your life. Memories of starting as a new student in the residence halls, or walking the campus each of the seasons with their own special beauty and challenges, or the late nights spent with friends at campus events or places around town are all a part of what makes IU unique.  

The classes that challenged you to work harder than you thought you could and the ones that were just fun to take are all a part of how you have developed while at IU. Many of you might have spent the last year being sure you have every last requirement met and rushing to get to this day. I had the pleasure of going through the year enjoying one last opportunity to experience all the great things our campus has to offer.

I hope this weekend you can take time to enjoy the accomplishment your graduation signifies and thank the friends, family and faculty who helped you get to this day.   
The world of the Internet will allow you to keep virtually in touch with the campus, but I hope your future will also provide an opportunity to come back and visit Bloomington to remember all that you have done here. We are all a part of the IU family, and we all have a vested interest in the future of this great university. Best wishes for what lies ahead, and thanks for being a part of my years at IU.

Sincerely,
Richard N. McKaig
Vice Provost for Student
Affairs and Dean of Students