From the President

Dear Alumni and Friends

An important key to success in most any endeavor is balance. A painter, for example, seeks a balance among different colors, shapes and proportions. Doctors urge us to eat a balanced diet from many food groups to maintain good health. In our daily lives we strive to find the right balance between work and play, spending and saving, dreaming and acting.

In this issue of Challenge we explore the concept of balance through our feature article about a new initiative of the NCAA Division II called “Life in the Balance.” This program is intended to provide student-athletes a well-rounded collegiate experience by creating a better balance among academics, athletics, and service to the community. We also present an interview with a former student and administrator who describes how the balance he experienced and the values he developed at Newman helped shape the NCAA program. In addition, we look at how a new Mission Statement and Identity Documents bring us more in balance with the mission of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ. And, we feature a few people in the Newman community who are truly living “Life in the Balance.”

I applaud the NCAA DII for adopting the “Life in the Balance” program, and I am proud that Newman is part of it. But really, the concept of living a life that balances academic, athletic and community service pursuits is nothing new for us. At Newman, we strive to help students acquire intellectual skills and a desire to serve, while also developing a deeper understanding of themselves, their faith and their community. We work to stimulate in them a desire for academic excellence and global awareness, and to develop the ethics and moral values that will guide them through life. By giving them the tools they need to succeed in their chosen fields — all predicated on strong, positive values — we help prepare our graduates to fulfill the Newman mission of transforming society.

Of course, finding the right balance can be a challenge. Just think back to your younger days when you were trying to find the balance it takes to ride a bicycle. As noted in these pages, however, the effort is clearly worth it, and the results can last a lifetime. In fact, learning how to have balance in your life is much like learning how to ride that bike:

Once you get it, you never forget it.

Let us hear how your Newman experiences help you achieve balance in your life today.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D.