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Community Messages<\/div>\n\n
Stay connected with President Anne E. McCall’s messages to the Wooster community \u2014 from campus announcements and reflections to celebrations, updates, and invitations to engage.<\/div>\n\n
\n\n2026<\/a>\n\n2025<\/a>\n\n2024<\/a>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n
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The archive<\/div>
Messages from the President<\/div><\/div>\n\n
43 messages<\/div><\/div>\n\n
2026<\/div>
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\n\n\n\nSep
10<\/span><\/span>\n\nBudget and Compensation Update<\/span>Dear Colleagues,\n\n \n\nI write to share brief updates on the College\u2019s budgeting process and compensation increases for fiscal year 2027. On August 19, 2026, the board… <\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary> \n
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September 10, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Colleagues,<\/p>\n\n

I write to share brief updates on the College\u2019s budgeting process and compensation increases for fiscal year 2027. On August 19, 2026, the board unanimously approved the proposed budget. The approved operating budget includes a planned operating deficit of $7.8 million that was anticipated in the College’s multi-year financial projection. The budget balances investments in our strategic priorities with continued efforts to strengthen the College’s long-term financial position. Individual budgets for departments and divisions are being loaded into our system on a rolling basis. This process is anticipated to be complete by September 30 and confirmation will be provided by email from the Finance office.<\/p>\n\n

\nWhile the College continues to navigate our sector\u2019s revenue challenges, I am pleased to share that the board-approved budget also includes a 1% raise pool effective September 1, 2026 for all College of Wooster employees hired before April 1, 2026. Please note, staff who have received a pay increase due to promotion or new position between April 1 and September 30 are not eligible for this increase. Faculty, including those promoted in rank this year, will receive salary letters from the Provost’s office.<\/p>\n\n

I want to thank the Board of Trustees for their support and extend my appreciation to HR, the Office of the Provost, the Office of Finance and Business and Cabinet partners for their work with me over the summer to make the case for this budget.<\/p>\n\n

\nWith deepest appreciation for all that each of you do to serve our mission and our community,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAug
18<\/span><\/span>\n\nWelcome to Wooster\u2019s 2026-27 Academic Year<\/span>The 2026-27 academic year is upon us, and on this eve of the first day of classes, I offer my heartfelt welcome, thanks to everyone whose work has brought us to this moment, and enthusiasm for the year of striving, accomplishment, and growth ahead. With\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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August 18, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

The 2026-27 academic year is upon us, and on this eve of the first day of classes, I offer my heartfelt welcome, thanks to everyone whose work has brought us to this moment, and enthusiasm for the year of striving, accomplishment, and growth ahead.<\/p>\n\n

Summer has been busy for our community, on and off campus. Whether you worked with Ohio Light Opera, guided students in research, supported campus improvement projects, participated in ARCH, hosted guests at camps and conferences, launched our new website, assisted incoming students making their way to campus, or prepared for fall athletics and performing arts\u2014and the list goes on\u2014you helped make this moment possible. Thank you.<\/p>\n\n

A special welcome to our new students, staff, and faculty members. You are joining a community eager to embrace you and to see how you will make your mark at The College of Wooster.<\/p>\n\n

Special thanks go to the faculty, staff, advanced students, and alumni who led 30 incoming students through our first Leadership Compass pre-orientation program. All of you took time and risks to launch the program, creating connections and learning along the way. The early results are exciting, and I look forward to supporting the next steps of this initiative.<\/p>\n\n

Those returning to the College will notice changes to campus itself. The removal of College-owned houses in the southeast quadrant completes the first phase of our greenway project. Our Facilities team worked throughout the summer with contractors, city officials, neighbors, and friends to complete this work all while preparing campus for the new academic year. Our Communications team led efforts to keep our community aware of our progress and to provide opportunities for our campus and surrounding community to contribute ideas for our next steps. I am grateful to everyone whose efforts brought us to this point. Stay tuned for more opportunities to participate in imagining how this newly opened green space can evolve to enhance the beauty of our campus and our lives together.<\/p>\n\n

Work on Compton Hall remains on schedule and on budget, and we expect the renovated residence hall to welcome students next August. This progress brings us to the next phase of improvements: removal of the old tennis courts. Here too, we will take time to explore how best to use this important space that bridges the end of our largest quad with Compton and Babcock Halls across Beall Avenue.<\/p>\n\n

Finally, a few dates to keep in mind. Our first all-campus meeting on September 10 will focus on results from the second year of our strategic plan. Before then, I hope you will join us for a special Thursday evening football home opener on September 3. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to a Welcome Back Tailgate on the Lowry Patio from 5 to 6:45 p.m., with food, drinks, games, and tables hosted by offices across campus. Then we will head over together to cheer on the Fighting Scots against Wilmington at 7 p.m.<\/p>\n\n

There is much to look forward to as we begin another year of intense discovery and plan for a future whose uncertain contours require the curiosity, combination of intellectual freedom and discipline, and discernment that are hallmarks of a College of Wooster education. I wish our students an inspiring first day of classes tomorrow; you are learning with accomplished faculty and staff who focus their talents and attention on you. May we all find joy in our joint purpose, each other, and this start to the semester.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall<\/strong> (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President
Professor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJul
6<\/span><\/span>\n\nSummer Updates<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I hope you had an enjoyable Fourth of July weekend and are settling into a good summer rhythm, whatever that may look like alongside your professional and personal responsibilities. With\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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July 6, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I hope you had an enjoyable Fourth of July weekend and are settling into a good summer rhythm, whatever that may look like alongside your professional and personal responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n

With the beginning of our new fiscal year, we welcome several new colleagues to campus, including field hockey coach Leanne Bough; interfaith chaplain Travis Webster; and two new Cabinet leaders: Rebecca Burgstahler as Vice President for Finance and Business and Treasurer, and Dr. Ashley Kistler as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. We are fortunate to benefit from the experience, vision, commitment, and kindness each brings to our community.<\/p>\n\n

As part of our continuing organizational evolution, we are also preparing to bring our student-facing work into closer alignment by moving the Dean of Students area under the Provost beginning in January. We are therefore opening the search for our next permanent Dean of Students by sharing the position description internally first: https:\/\/wooster.interviewexchange.com\/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=202207. I encourage you to read it and consider whether your background, strengths, and interests might make you a strong candidate for this important Cabinet-level role. If you would like to discuss the position, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or to Ashley. In the meantime, Interim Dean of Students Joe Kirk will continue reporting directly to me.<\/p>\n\n

Together as a learning community, we will continue navigating challenges that include strengthening the College’s financial health, responding to new government regulations, meeting the evolving expectations of students and families, supporting our students’ growth, and ensuring that our academic offerings evolve alongside new knowledge and the important questions of our time. I am dedicated to working with all of you to inspire and our prepare students for lives of consequence marked by curiosity, integrity, excellence, care, and cultural humility.<\/p>\n\n

Best wishes,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJul
1<\/span><\/span>\n\nWooster\u2019s Partnership with the Posse Foundation<\/span>July 1, 2025 Dear Community of Scots, I am writing today to let you know that this fall\u2019s incoming class will be The College of Wooster\u2019s final Posse cohort. Our partnership agreement with the\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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July 1, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

July 1, 2025<\/p>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I am writing today to let you know that this fall\u2019s incoming class will be The College of Wooster\u2019s final Posse cohort. Our partnership agreement with the Posse Foundation expired in June, and we will not renew it. While the timing of this news over the summer break is not ideal, I am sharing it in a spirit of timeliness.<\/p>\n\n

I want to assure you that we will support our current and incoming Posse Scholars in the same way we supported previous classes. The College will continue to partner with Posse over the next four years as our students complete their education, and we will support our students through graduation and beyond, as they join Wooster\u2019s Posse alumni community.<\/p>\n\n

I am proud of Wooster\u2019s 18-year relationship with the Posse Foundation. During that time, 118 Posse Scholars graduated and joined the ranks of our Wooster alumni. Since our founding, Wooster has always committed itself to being \u201ca place of studies for all.\u201d Our mission of preparing students \u201cto become leaders of character and influence in an interdependent global community\u201d calls us to bring together students from many backgrounds and places. Today, our student body continues to reflect this tradition, and<\/p>\n\n

our 35 current and incoming Posse students, like our Posse alumni who preceded them, are a valued part of this vibrant community.<\/p>\n\n

I am grateful for the work of the staff at the Posse Foundation and Posse Atlanta. The lessons we have learned in working with them will help us continue our efforts to support students\u2019 success. I am also particularly grateful for the work of our Posse liaisons and mentors, who support our students\u2019 development throughout the program and who can help us to apply these learnings as we go forward.<\/p>\n\n

This decision does not reflect a change in our commitment to Wooster\u2019s mission or values, but an adjustment in strategies to support students\u2019 leadership development that we believe will serve Wooster students well in the future. If you have questions or wish to share your thoughts as you process this news, please reach out to me for a conversation.<\/p>\n\n

Sincerely,<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJun
16<\/span><\/span>\n\nNew Student Health and Wellness Partnership<\/span>Dear Students, Your health and well-being are essential to your success at The College of Wooster, and I am writing to share an important update about how we will continue supporting you. Beginning July\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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June 16, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Students,<\/p>\n\n

Your health and well-being are essential to your success at The College of Wooster, and I am writing to share an important update about how we will continue supporting you. Beginning July 1, the College will partner with Bloomington Medical Services (BMS), an affiliate of Wooster Community Hospital Health System, to manage the Longbrake Student Wellness Center.<\/p>\n\n

Wooster Community Hospital has long been a trusted partner of the College. This new arrangement brings together two organizations that share a commitment to serving students and the broader community. The agreement with BMS will enhance the health and wellness services available to you now by connecting on-campus care to the expertise, specialty services, and resources of a health system recognized nationally for excellence in patient care and safety.<\/p>\n\n

We know many students have developed trusted relationships with members of the Wellness Center team, and you may be wondering what this change means for these staff members. Our employees have been informed of the transition and will remain with the College through June 30. They are being supported through the process and BMS and Wooster Community Hospital are working directly with them on opportunities for continued employment within the health system, including positions connected to student health services.<\/p>\n\n

As with any transition related to healthcare, you may have questions about services, medical records, insurance, or ongoing care. We have created a detailed FAQ to help answer those questions, and the Dean of Students Office (Dean_of_Students@wooster.edu) is available to assist as well.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMay
6<\/span><\/span>\n\nThe College of Wooster mourns the loss of Dr. Pamela Rae Frese<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, It is with deep sadness that I write to share that on Monday evening, we lost Dr. Pamela Rae Frese, Professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, who for\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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May 6, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

It is with deep sadness that I write to share that on Monday evening, we lost Dr. Pamela Rae Frese, Professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, who for four decades had been guiding and inspiring generations of students and colleagues.<\/p>\n\n

An anthropologist whose work spanned topics ranging from ritual and religion to ethnographic methods and Latin American cultures, Pam was known for making learning deeply personal. Students who encountered her through Independent Study, co-curricular programming. or her memorable Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion course, for example, remember both what they learned and the excitement and openness with which she taught.<\/p>\n\n

Many of you had the privilege of working with Pam for decades and knew her with the richness that time and experience provide. While I did not have that privilege personally, I look forward to hearing your stories and reading your remembrances in the days and weeks ahead.<\/p>\n\n

Pam was also a dedicated member of our city and county community. I spoke with Pam for the first time at an NAACP dinner and learned from others at that event of her long-standing involvement in this and other social justice organizations.<\/p>\n\n

You can read her full obituary here: https:\/\/www.robertsfuneralhome.com\/obituaries\/pamela-frese?ttm_pid=211380068&ttm_affiliate=legacypro&ttm_affiliatetype=standard&ttm_campaign=legacy.<\/p>\n\n

Our hearts go out to her husband, Dr. Stephen Gray, whom many of you know from his years as a faculty member in the Department of Computer Science, and their entire family as well as friends on and off campus. May we all aspire to live a life as rich and giving as Pam.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMay
1<\/span><\/span>\n\nMaking Way for the Greenway<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I am writing to share an update about an important step in the continued evolution of our campus. Beginning May 18, the College will start removing 16 College-owned houses at\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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May 1, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I am writing to share an update about an important step in the continued evolution of our campus.<\/p>\n\n

Beginning May 18, the College will start removing 16 College-owned houses at the southeast corner of campus on Stibbs, Spink, and University streets and restoring these areas to grass by seeding. The land they occupy has the capacity to form a beautiful, flexible perimeter with our community neighbors, enhance our sustainability, and provide leisure and natural space as well as outdoor research areas. The buildings to be removed were selected based on location and an assessment of overall condition, uses, historical value, energy efficiency, and potential for financially responsible rehabilitation. This work will take place over the summer, with the goal of completion before the start of the next academic year.<\/p>\n\n

The project is part of a broader vision to build on one of Wooster\u2019s defining strengths: the beauty of our campus. By \u201cMaking Way for the Greenway,\u201d we are beginning a long-term process of creating iconic spaces that invite people to learn and enjoy the outdoors. This initiative also reflects responsible stewardship of College resources, as removing these houses will save us more than $6 million in deferred maintenance costs and approximately $75,000 in annual operating expenses. You can read our article online and additional information is also available at wooster.edu\/greenway-faq.<\/p>\n\n

The greenway is in its earliest stages, and its future, which intersects in rich ways with our campus as an accredited arboretum will be shaped through an ongoing process of idea generation, collaboration, and philanthropy. Students will play a central role, alongside faculty, staff, community members, and friends of the College, in imagining how these spaces take shape. Ideas such as interactive art, water features, pollinator gardens, research areas, recreational spaces, and other concepts have already been brought forward. A cross-functional team will be established to generate and share ideas as plans move forward, and we pursue philanthropic investments.<\/p>\n\n

As an opportunity for our campus, neighbors, and Wooster community to come together and share input and ideas for shaping the vision, we will host a gathering on June 2 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Lowry Student Center. More details will be sent out soon, and I hope you will join us!<\/p>\n\n

Thank you for your care for our College and for one another as we embark on the first phase of this chapter for our campus.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nApr
29<\/span><\/span>\n\nTime of Transition<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, The end of April is always a time of transition. The last full week of classes marks a culmination, even as students\u2019 upcoming exams and final papers, professors\u2019 late-semester grading\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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April 29, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

The end of April is always a time of transition. The last full week of classes marks a culmination, even as students\u2019 upcoming exams and final papers, professors\u2019 late-semester grading and preparation for summer projects, athletic teams\u2019 tournament competitions (Go Scots!), and preparations across campus for our end-of-year events and summer camps and conferences require significant, focused efforts.<\/p>\n\n

As I write, we are in the final days of the traditional recruitment season, and enrollment remains an area that is both vital for our College and shifting here as elsewhere in the country. We know that with great effort and success, we provide our students an exceptional liberal arts education, and I appreciate how disconcerting it is to find ourselves needing to reduce expenses, reshape offices, and make our level of staffing match more closely the anticipated size of our student body. And yet, given our structural deficit, long-term changes in student population, and our own market position, difficult decisions are fundamental to ensuring a financially sustainable college for the years to come.<\/p>\n\n

Even as we continue this work of financial discipline going into and over the summer, we look to the future and to the ways in which we can invite current and future generations of students into our academic community. Everyone who is teaching, researching, and supporting our students creates that future, as do those colleagues working to shape offerings in ways that reflect the interests and ambitions of students today. Special projects also reflect and further our institutional ambitions. A few that are in development will have an impact on our students starting in Fall 2026:<\/p>\n\n

Most immediately visible is the College greenway project, an initiative that you will hear more about on Friday. This will begin with the removal of houses at the Southeast border of campus. The greenway enhances our campus and provides a physical sign of our community as a space for sustainable futures, a place where intellectual, cultural, leisure, and community practices converge for personal growth and collective well-being.<\/p>\n\n

A team of faculty and staff is preparing to welcome students into the first cohort of our new Compass Program. This multi-year program, first designed by Education faculty Drs. Matthew Broda and Ryan Ozar and developed with the collaboration of Abbey Righter in Admissions and our Alumni and Family Engagement team in Advancement, is built on an expeditionary educational model and will launch just before fall semester. It will support our students\u2019 personal leadership strengths and collective growth. Special thanks go to these creative and driven colleagues and to early donors for making this initiative possible.<\/p>\n\n

We also look forward to supporting proposals in germination, the first of which is to expand our Center for Entrepreneurship, an effort made possible thanks to a planning grant awarded by the Burton-Morgan Foundation. Our incoming provost, Dr. Ashley Kistler also intends to lead groups on academic initiatives whose creation can be accelerated through a special investment of time and resources in the summer.<\/p>\n\n

Turning my attention back to the very near present, our upcoming I.S. Symposium this Friday is cause for great celebration. This event held on a single day highlights the culmination of years of work; certainly the research, ideation, setbacks and successes of our students, and also the work of the professors, staff and other mentors who supported them on their path to succeed. Congratulations to all on these achievements!<\/p>\n\n

In closing, while the discomfort of uncertainty is reasonable given our situation and the world around us, we know too that it is both by celebrating our successes and taking action for the future that we honor our mission, our current and future students, and the efforts of everyone in our College. Thank you for all you do individually and as a community to further our purpose together.<\/p>\n\n

Go Scots!<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nApr
7<\/span><\/span>\n\nAnnouncing Commencement 2026 Speakers<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, As we look ahead to Commencement 2026, I am pleased to share the speakers who will help mark this important moment in time at The College of Wooster. We are\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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April 7, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

As we look ahead to Commencement 2026, I am pleased to share the speakers who will help mark this important moment in time at The College of Wooster.<\/p>\n\n

We are honored to welcome alumna Jodi Nunnari \u201984 as our Commencement speaker. A leader in the field of mitochondrial biology, Dr. Nunnari has built a remarkable career advancing the understanding of how cells function and how that knowledge can be applied to human health. Mitochondria are cellular structures that provide energy to living cells, and they are implicated in a wide range of diseases including heart disease, stroke, and inherited conditions. Dr. Nunnari was the first to describe mitochondria as a dynamic network in a homeostatic balance, and her lab described the mitochondrial division and fusion machines as well as additional mechanisms underlying mitochondrial behavior within cells. Dr. Nunnari\u2019s academic body of work includes more than 100 publications, including articles in some of the most prestigious peer-reviewed scientific journals in the world. Dr. Nunnari\u2019s career reflects the characteristic curiosity, rigor, and global impact that define our graduate qualities, and I hope you are as excited as I am to hear the perspective she will share at our Commencement.<\/p>\n\n

I also eagerly anticipate hearing thoughts and perspectives from several members of our Class of 2026. The ceremony will include remarks from Josephine Fleischel, a Global Media & Digital Studies major, and Elliot Miller, an environmental geoscience major with a minor in physics, two students who have distinguished themselves through their academic work, their engagement across campus, and the care they bring to our community. Stuart Franklin, an education and religious studies major, will provide the invocation, and the joy of the day will be enhanced with a vocal performance by Lilly Ashe, a communication sciences and disorders major and music minor. Please see this online article to learn more about these outstanding graduating seniors and Dr. Nunnari.<\/p>\n\n

I am looking forward to celebrating Commencement with many of you on May 16, as our seniors complete their time on our campus and continue their journey to becoming leaders of character and influence in our world.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nApr
2<\/span><\/span>\n\nAnnouncing the Abbey Arboretum at Wooster<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I\u2019m pleased to share with you that our entire campus has been awarded level I accreditation as an arboretum by ArbNet, a global arboretum accreditation program. The campus-wide Abbey Arboretum\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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April 2, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I\u2019m pleased to share with you that our entire campus has been awarded level I accreditation as an arboretum by ArbNet, a global arboretum accreditation program. The campus-wide Abbey Arboretum at Wooster is supported by a seven-figure gift from alumnus Paul Abbey \u201973 and his wife, Constance Norweb Abbey. This recognition honors our commitment to provide a nourishing learning environment that fosters community, scholarship, research, and innovation.<\/p>\n\n

Maintained beautifully by our campus grounds department, the Abbey Arboretum at Wooster encompasses an inventory of approximately 2,800 trees that support the local ecosystem across our 240-acre campus. Paul worked closely with our grounds manager Phil Olsen to apply for level I accreditation, which was awarded in just over a week. This accomplishment is a nod to the strength of our campus, our local community and partnerships that make Wooster a natural place to earn such recognition.<\/p>\n\n

We\u2019re grateful to Paul and Connie, whose commitment honors that stewardship and enhances our ability to preserve this enriching environment for Wooster\u2019s future as we look toward our upcoming comprehensive campaign. You can read more about their gift and the ecological and economic value of our campus tree canopy in the full article online.<\/p>\n\n

Thank you again to our campus grounds crew for their enduring stewardship of our urban forest and campus environment. It\u2019s an honor for our community to learn, work, and play every day in the middle of an arboretum!<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMar
31<\/span><\/span>\n\nI.S. Monday and Provost Visit<\/span>Dear Faculty and Staff, Welcome back for the final phase of our Spring semester. I hope that you were able to witness yesterday’s triumphant I.S. Monday parade as our seniors marched south through the\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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March 31, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Faculty and Staff,<\/p>\n\n

Welcome back for the final phase of our Spring semester.<\/p>\n\n

I hope that you were able to witness yesterday’s triumphant I.S. Monday parade as our seniors marched south through the Arch to mark this important milestone in their college careers. Many people took part in this most “Wooster\u201d of celebrations! While hundreds of seniors marched through a crowd of cheering supporters, beyond our campus more than 20,000 people viewed our Facebook Live event, and we held I.S. Monday celebrations with alumni in 45 cities! Thank you to all who helped to make this a memorable moment for our seniors and our broader community. It was a tremendous celebration of the work we do together to fulfill the College\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n\n

There are many assignments, performances, competitions, exhibits, orals and more that will occur before our seniors march north through the Arch on graduation day, and the coming month will be intense for everyone on campus. You\u2019ll hear more from me later this week, but for today, please allow me simply to call attention to the second transition visit for our incoming Provost, Dr. Ashley Kistler. She will be on campus Thursday and Friday through lunchtime; this visit will include tours of more of our facilities with colleagues, meeting with three governance committees, structured time with volunteers over meals, and another drop-in office hour on Thursday. She will be in the provost’s conference room (in the Galpin suite with I.R.) from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and looks forward to meeting those of you who would like to stop by and introduce yourselves.<\/p>\n\n

Dr. Kistler will return to campus for her third visit on Friday May 1 to coincide with Senior Research Symposium. She will also have time to participate in a few meetings. Please let me know if you would like to be on her calendar, and I’ll do my best to make that happen.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nFeb
12<\/span><\/span>\n\nCollege Reorganization Update<\/span>Dear Campus Community, Thank you for your patience and care these past few days as we adapt across the College to our adjusted organizational structure. This is a follow-up to previous messages announcing the\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
February 12, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Campus Community,<\/p>\n\n

Thank you for your patience and care these past few days as we adapt across the College to our adjusted organizational structure. This is a follow-up to previous messages announcing the layoff of 18 full-time and four part-time staff in response to changing demographics and corresponding reductions in class sizes and therefore revenue. The majority of the eliminated positions were non-student-facing roles.<\/p>\n\n

As we are now moving forward in this structure, meetings between managers, supervisors, and their team members are ongoing as everyone identifies how to work best together in these restructured areas. While job duties are evolving in several cases, I\u2019ll call attention to current campus leaders who are taking on significant new responsibilities. Professor Jen Bowen, known for her contributions as our Dean of Curriculum and Academic Engagement, is now also serving as the new Dean of APEX. Joe Kirk, who most recently has been serving as Assistant Dean of Students and who has deep knowledge of residential life, campus safety and conduct, is now leading as the Interim Dean of Students. Lin Hillis, our Vice President of People, Talent and Culture, is leading Career and Experiential Learning on an interim basis. Please allow me to thank them as they transition into these roles.<\/p>\n\n

Some areas of responsibility have shifted as a result of reorganizations and reductions in force, particularly in the Dean of Students Office, APEX, and People, Talent, & Culture.<\/p>\n\n

In particular, Civil Rights and Title IX as well as Community Health Promotion has become part of People, Talent, and Culture, as these positions already serve our entire community, rather than students only.<\/p>\n\n

In student-focused areas, the Dean of Students Office continues its oversight of Residence Life, Conduct, Campus Safety, and the Health & Wellness Center. Care Team reporting will continue under the established process. Student Engagement, however, has joined the Center for Belonging and Intercultural Dialogue, while Student Success is now part of APEX Advising.<\/p>\n\n

New organization charts are forthcoming; in the meantime, I recommend contacting leaders of these areas when specific questions arise.<\/p>\n\n

I understand change can be disruptive. As the College has moved into this structure, I greatly appreciate the way our community is working together to ensure students are connected with the services they seek and our operations run smoothly.<\/p>\n\n

If you have questions that are not answered here or at our FAQ page, please reach out to the leaders of specific areas or feel free to contact me.<\/p>\n\n

Sincerely,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nFeb
6<\/span><\/span>\n\nAn Update About Staffing Changes<\/span>Dear Students, I am writing to share an update about changes that took place at the College yesterday. As I shared in a campus meeting yesterday afternoon, reorganizations, staffing consolidations and reductions took place\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
February 6, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Students,<\/p>\n\n

I am writing to share an update about changes that took place at the College yesterday.<\/p>\n\n

As I shared in a campus meeting yesterday afternoon, reorganizations, staffing consolidations and reductions took place across several areas of the College including the Offices of Academic Affairs, Advancement, Business and Finance, Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communications, People, Talent and Culture (HR), Student Affairs, and the Office of the President. Eighteen full time staff and four part time staff were impacted. These actions were based on financial realities and made with the support of the Board of Trustees to help return the College to a balanced budget in an era of smaller incoming classes. They in no way reflect on the performance or dedication of the people who have left the College.<\/p>\n\n

Changes of this nature naturally create a sense of both loss and uncertainty. You may also wonder what these decisions mean for you. In line with the College\u2019s mission, my top priority throughout this process has been to protect the core of your academic experience here, including Independent Study and our academic programs; your experience of residential life on our campus, and programs that allow you to develop in multiple ways outside of the classroom.<\/p>\n\n

If you have questions or concerns about how these changes may affect your experience, please feel free to reach out so that we can discuss them together. I\u2019ll have open office hours today from 9:00 a.m. to noon. If you would prefer to meet next week or beyond, please reach out to me directly to schedule.<\/p>\n\n

Sincerely,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJan
25<\/span><\/span>\n\nGrateful and Looking Ahead<\/span>Dear Colleagues, I hope that all of you are in warm and safe locations on this chilly and extraordinarily snowy weekend. You may have already seen Angila Tracey\u2019s email outlining changes to our regular\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
January 25, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Colleagues,<\/p>\n\n

I hope that all of you are in warm and safe locations on this chilly and extraordinarily snowy weekend. You may have already seen Angila Tracey\u2019s email outlining changes to our regular operations tomorrow. While we anticipate returning to normal operations on Tuesday, we are continuing to monitor conditions on campus, so please keep an eye on your email for any additional changes.<\/p>\n\n

While many view the first big snowfall of winter with trepidation, I know that our students joyfully anticipate participating in one of the College\u2019s long-stranding traditions: filling Kauke Arch with snow. In light of this and so much more, I am grateful to our grounds crew who tirelessly work to clear the snow across campus so all may get around. I am also thankful to our library faculty and staff, dining, residential life, facilities, and the many others who are taking on special tasks on behalf of our campus community.<\/p>\n\n

Even with schedule changes due to the winter storm, our Fighting Scots men\u2019s and women\u2019s swimming and diving, basketball, indoor track and field, and cheer teams all had a busy competition and performance weekend, with many strong performances and a great ambiance in the Scots Center. Congratulations to all our scholar athletes and thanks to our coaches and coaching staff, volunteers, spectators, officials, and fellow conference teams who made these events possible and seamless in tight logistical conditions.<\/p>\n\n

Looking to the week ahead, I invite you to the first of several campus community meetings planned for this semester. This coming Friday, January 30 at noon in the Scot Center Governance Room, I will provide College updates, then David Jones our Vice President of Business and Finance will present on financial and enrollment trends in higher education today that affect our work here at The College of Wooster. I hope to see many of you on Friday.<\/p>\n\n

Special thanks to all who are keeping watch over our campus through the storm, and for your help in the snowy days ahead.<\/p>\n\n

Warm wishes,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJan
14<\/span><\/span>\n\nWelcome to Spring Semester 2026<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, Welcome to Spring Semester 2026. I hope that your winter break was filled with people and activities you cherish and that your return to campus has included happy reunions and\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
January 14, 2026 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

Welcome to Spring Semester 2026.<\/p>\n\n

I hope that your winter break was filled with people and activities you cherish and that your return to campus has included happy reunions and anticipation for the semester to come. During the break I found time to relish two novels, Kiran Desai\u2019s The Inheritance of Loss and Alice Zeniter\u2019s The Art of Losing, that explore forms of loss shaped by personal experience, history, and the present moment. These works of fiction struck me for their ability to deepen and thicken our understanding of loss in the world as in our own lives.<\/p>\n\n

On Monday, our yearly Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration provides a timely opportunity to reflect together on the loss that comes from hatred in its many forms and the immense gain that comes from centering action in love. In the context of events that will take place throughout the day, I call particular attention to Dr. Afiya M. Mbilishaka, who will give the keynote address, \u201cLove In Action\u201d at 3:30 p.m. in Gault Recital Hall of Scheide Music Building.<\/p>\n\n

Throughout the year it\u2019s important to pause and celebrate such moments of coming together while recognizing that many on our campus feel the weight of the world at large.<\/p>\n\n

Higher education as a whole is also navigating significant challenges even as our daily work of intense learning and responsibly managing the College\u2019s resources continues. The critical work of stewarding our resources extends beyond the concerns of current operating costs to reimagining our campus for the future. Areas of exploration we will embark on this year include considerations of how our residential spaces best serve students and the potential to create \u2018greenbelt\u2019 space on our campus.<\/p>\n\n

Another area of practical and ever-present focus for our community is keeping ourselves as prepared as possible for the unexpected. In the next few days, our Secretary of the College Angila Tracey will send a campus email with links to safety and emergency preparedness resources and additional reminders, including a refresher on interacting with law enforcement if they should visit on our campus. Thank you for taking these resources to heart and for doing your part in caring for your own safety and the safety of our campus.<\/p>\n\n

Moving into this new semester of working together in service to our mission, I look forward to deepening and expanding connections that I\u2019ve made in my two and a half years at The College of Wooster. Please feel free, as always, to reach out, if you would like to talk; I hope you\u2019ll also be willing to connect if I do the same. And while I am perennially behind in general and scholarly reading, please know I take great pleasure in receiving recommendations!<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
2025<\/div>
<\/div><\/div>\n\n
\n\n\n\nDec
10<\/span><\/span>\n\nAnnouncing Our New Provost and Chief Academic Officer<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I\u2019m pleased to announce the selection of Ashley Kistler as provost and chief academic officer of Wooster, to begin July 1, 2026. Her selection follows a nationwide\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
December 10, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Chief Academic Officer<\/p>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I\u2019m pleased to announce the selection of Ashley Kistler as provost and chief academic officer of Wooster, to begin July 1, 2026. Her selection follows a nationwide search supported by Academic Search Leader Dr. Ann Die Hasselmo, Senior Consultant Dr. Christopher Butler, and Manager Kate Cusimano.<\/p>\n\n

Ashley values a liberal arts education and mentored student research in ways that closely mirror our mission, which will make her a powerful steward of our Independent Study program and champion for the strengths of our curriculum. Her own liberal arts education at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania, included a faculty-mentored research project, and she\u2019s also nurtured students through field research projects in Guatemala, giving her an understanding of the relationships so many of our faculty and students develop.<\/p>\n\n

Currently serving as dean of the College of Liberal Arts at Rollins College, a top-ranked private and regional institution in Winter Park, Florida, Ashley will bring to Wooster more than 18 years of experience as an educator, scholar in anthropology, and faculty leader. At Rollins, a school that includes graduate and professional programs, Kistler oversees the academic programs in the College of Liberal Arts including 35 majors, 45 minors, and three general education programs for approximately 2,300 students. Ashley supervises tenure and promotion evaluation processes, manages key parts of the budget for academic affairs, collaborates with academic departments on faculty hiring and retention, and serves as the chief academic planning officer for the College, managing course offerings for a growing student enrollment. She also works closely with Advancement to explore fundraising opportunities and prepare grant proposals. Ashley previously served as president of the faculty for two years, a role in which she oversaw the college\u2019s faculty governance committees, managed the governance budget, facilitated discussion on legislation at faculty meetings, helped to develop the College of Liberal Arts\u2019 first Philosophy of Compensation, built consensus to ratify a new governance structure for the College of Liberal Arts, and advocated for faculty to senior leadership and the Board of Trustees. She has also served in roles as interim dean, associate dean, and department chair of anthropology. You can read more in the full article online.<\/p>\n\n

As we celebrate Ashley\u2019s appointment, I also want to honor and recognize Lisa Perfetti for her achievements as provost. Since 2019, Lisa has supported the College in navigating challenges from a global pandemic to the rise of AI. She helped lead the College through an academic program review; oversaw the development of new interdisciplinary academic, co-curricular programs and preprofessional programs; supported experiential learning enhancements such as the campus garden and faculty-led study abroad; and guided faculty in revising the student course evaluation system and review process. I look forward to honoring Lisa further before the end of the year.<\/p>\n\n

As we anticipate the transition, Ashley expressed her excitement for her move to Wooster and getting to know our community. I\u2019m eager to have you join me in welcoming her to the College, and we\u2019ll be sharing more information with you as she plans multiple visits to campus before she transitions to the role next summer.<\/p>\n\n

My deepest thanks go out to the search committee for the significant time and effort they put into the provost search this fall as well as the faculty, staff, students, and committees who participated in the on-campus interviews and sessions. Your input and feedback were greatly appreciated and helped allow us to welcome such a talented new provost to the College.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nDec
9<\/span><\/span>\n\nWarmest Wishes!<\/span>Dear Students, As the semester draws to a close, Ravi and I send our warmest wishes for a joyful and restorative winter break. This fall has been full of moments when your curiosity and\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
December 9, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Students,<\/p>\n\n

As the semester draws to a close, Ravi and I send our warmest wishes for a joyful and<\/p>\n\n

restorative winter break.<\/p>\n\n

This fall has been full of moments when your curiosity and love of learning were evident<\/p>\n\n

in your coursework, research, creative work, and the questions you brought into classrooms,<\/p>\n\n

studios, lecture halls, rehearsals, and labs. You supported one another across teams,<\/p>\n\n

performances, exhibitions, and community events, and through these things and more,<\/p>\n\n

helped to foster Wooster\u2019s welcoming community. It is inspiring to see how your efforts<\/p>\n\n

shape our College and your experiences here transform you in turn.<\/p>\n\n

Winter break can be an important time for rest, reflection, and connection as you consider<\/p>\n\n

the year that is ending and look toward the future. Many of you may also use this period to<\/p>\n\n

continue working on your I.S., participate in experiential learning, earn money, or simply catch<\/p>\n\n

up with family and friends. However you spend the coming weeks, we hope it is with people<\/p>\n\n

who encourage and care for you.<\/p>\n\n

If you\u2019re still on campus this Thursday evening, we hope you\u2019ll join us for an informal reception<\/p>\n\n

at the house. Details are in the email sent on December 8. And of course we look forward to<\/p>\n\n

welcoming you back in January, with fresh energy and renewed purpose to begin a bright New Year!<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne and Ravi<\/p>\n\n

P.S. See what makes the holidays special for members of our community.<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nOct
31<\/span><\/span>\n\nFall Progress and Highlights<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, As we move decisively into more familiar autumn weather and the final full month of classes this semester, I write to share briefly a few updates related to ongoing news,\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
October 31, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

As we move decisively into more familiar autumn weather and the final full month of classes this semester, I write to share briefly a few updates related to ongoing news, projects, and issues of interest.<\/p>\n\n

At its Fall meeting this past weekend, the Board of Trustees voted for our College to enter into the leadership phase of a comprehensive campaign. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to engage our entire community of Scots over the coming months and years in support of our mission.<\/p>\n\n

Our search for the next provost is progressing well. The first round of interviews is now complete, and I am deeply grateful to the members of our search committee for their commitment, including reviewing a large pool of candidates and devoting two very full days for virtual interviews amid their already full schedules. Thank you as well to those of you across campus who rearranged meetings or teaching commitments to make it possible for them to participate in this important selection and recruiting process. I look forward to sharing more news on our next steps within a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n

My thanks also go to all residents of Douglass Hall for your gracious hospitality and flexibility during the recent celebration of this historic hall\u2019s significant renovation and modernization. It was a joy to welcome visitors, including an alumnus who lived there in 1959-60, and to see the revitalized space that now provides for an enhanced student experience. To walk through a space that was shuttered two years ago and see it once again vibrant and welcoming is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together as a campus. And the success of Douglass also bodes well for the Compton Hall project now underway!<\/p>\n\n

You may be aware of recent discussions across the country regarding the federal government\u2019s invitation to colleges and universities to sign a \u201ccompact\u201d for higher education. Please know that The College of Wooster will not sign this document. As a campus of Independent Minds, Working Together, we will continue to chart lawfully our own course grounded in academic freedom, community, and devotion to our mission.<\/p>\n\n

Finally, this time of year always shines with the many lectures, performances, exhibits and competitions that reflect the energy and creativity of our campus. These events showcase our College at its best, as a community of boundless curiosity, discipline, collaboration, and joy. I encourage all of you to attend as you are able, and to all those who make these events possible through your coaching, mentoring, teaching, and other support, thank you.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nSep
22<\/span><\/span>\n\nUpdates As We Change Seasons<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I hope the start of this week finds you well after a lively homecoming weekend. This year’s homecoming was particularly successful, as nearly 1,000 alumni, family visitors and campus community\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
September 22, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I hope the start of this week finds you well after a lively homecoming weekend. This year’s homecoming was particularly successful, as nearly 1,000 alumni, family visitors and campus community members enjoyed the academic, cultural, and athletic offerings thanks to the efforts of many across all divisions of our College. Whether you were working behind the scenes or directly with students and guests, thank you for making the weekend\u2019s events memorable for our alumni, parents, and entire campus community.<\/p>\n\n

Moving into this week, the search for the next Provost of The College is progressing. As I shared at the last faculty meeting, we are following a hybrid process that draws on key features of the previous two provost searches. My task was to identify a maximum of 10 members to provide as broad representation as possible in advance of many more people meeting with finalists later this Fall. I am happy to report that we now have a full committee that will begin its work together on Friday. My thanks go to the Committee on Committees, the many faculty who allowed their names to be placed on the ballot for one of the three elected slots, and the six appointed members who will join them on the Provost Search Committee, which I will chair. I am also grateful for the 70+ colleagues who took the time to meet with me and share their ideas about the position.<\/p>\n\n

Please see the full list of committee members below in alphabetical order. Note that while I list the major affiliation of each person, committee members contribute in myriad ways to The College in their departments, on standing committees, and other initiatives:<\/p>\n\n

Peter Abramo, Director of Entrepreneurship, APEX<\/p>\n\n

Matthew Broda, Associate Professor and Chair of Education<\/p>\n\n

Kayla Campbell, Co-Director of the Center for Belonging and Intercultural Dialogue<\/p>\n\n

Carolyn Ciriegio, Vice President for Advancement<\/p>\n\n

Makiba Foster, Librarian of The College<\/p>\n\n

Amber Garcia, Professor of Psychology<\/p>\n\n

Anne McCall, President and Chair of the Search Committee<\/p>\n\n

Evan Riley, Associate Professor of Philosophy<\/p>\n\n

Jennifer Sera, Director of Creative Services<\/p>\n\n

Mark Snider, Professor of Chemistry<\/p>\n\n

Lastly and to touch on an unrelated topic that may be causing you worry since the weekend, we are following closely the evolution of the presidential proclamation that came out Friday evening relative to holders of H-1B visas. I know that a good number of you have concerns, be it for yourselves, our colleagues, or other members in the community. While the provisions, timing, and target of the announcement are being clarified and restricted, please know that we are in contact with counsel as well as all faculty and staff who hold these visas and will continue to monitor the situation.<\/p>\n\n

With good wishes to all on this first day of Fall.<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nSep
9<\/span><\/span>\n\nInvitation to Participate in the Provost Search Process<\/span>Dear Colleagues, The search for a Provost provides us with a key inflection point to re-examine the greatest needs of our College and to identify individuals who recognize our distinctiveness, have the expertise and\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
September 9, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Colleagues,<\/p>\n\n

The search for a Provost provides us with a key inflection point to re-examine the greatest needs of our College and to identify individuals who recognize our distinctiveness, have the expertise and experiences needed for this key leadership role, and possess attributes to help us seize opportunities and meet key challenges.<\/p>\n\n

I am grateful to all of you \u2013 about 60 faculty members and multiple staff so far \u2013 who have taken time over the past three weeks to share your thoughts related to the position and the process. Your comments have helped shape my thinking and will inform the work of the search committee. If you and I haven\u2019t yet met on this topic, and you have thoughts you would like to communicate, please let me know (amccall@wooster.edu). I\u2019m happy to come to your office, host you in mine, or meet elsewhere over coffee for a conversation.<\/p>\n\n

While this consultation process continues, I also invite faculty to participate in the election of three members to the Provost search committee. You will hear from the Committee on Committees latr today on the mechanics of the process, which will include the opportunity for you to nominate yourself or a colleague to stand for election.<\/p>\n\n

Please note the following requirements for these slots: Nominees shall be tenured faculty members of the faculty and will be voted upon in three separate groups, by academic discipline. We are running this as a Fall search, so our schedule is already set. Members of the search committee need to make themselves available for the following timeline and meeting dates:<\/p>\n\n

\u00b7 A charge meeting to be scheduled for the last week in September;<\/p>\n\n

\u00b7 Application reading during the first half of October;<\/p>\n\n

\u00b7 A zoom meeting to select semi-finalists on October 21 from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 pm;<\/p>\n\n

\u00b7 Two full days of zoom interviews of semi-finalists on October 28-29;<\/p>\n\n

\u00b7 Meetings to support on-campus finalist visits over the week of November 17-21;<\/p>\n\n

\u00b7 Participate in a zoom committee meeting during the week of November 24 to discuss the finalist candidates.<\/p>\n\n

To complement elected members, I reserve the possibility of naming a fourth faculty member across all ranks and disciplines to the committee, which will also include at least two other members of Academic Affairs, one vice president, and myself.<\/p>\n\n

Thank you for your interest in this important process. I look forward to working with you to recruit our next Provost.<\/p>\n\n

Best regards,<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nSep
3<\/span><\/span>\n\nJoin Us for the Campus-Wide Lecture Series, Democracy and Academic Freedom: A Forum<\/span>Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students, I am thrilled to invite you to the opening of our timely lecture series, Democracy and Academic Freedom: A Forum. With deep gratitude to Evan Riley and John Rudisill\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
September 3, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students,<\/p>\n\n

I am thrilled to invite you to the opening of our timely lecture series, Democracy and Academic Freedom: A Forum. With deep gratitude to Evan Riley and John Rudisill for bringing it about, I am honored to sponsor this series in partnership with the Department of Philosophy, the Lindner Endowment and the Bell Distinguished Lectureship in Law.<\/p>\n\n

Tonight’s lecture, titled \u201cContemporary Attacks on Academic Freedom: Historical and Comparative Perspectives,\u201d will be presented by Eve Darian-Smith, Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Global and International Studies at the University of California, Irvine. Please join us in Gault Recital Hall at the Scheide Music Center at 7:30 p.m. The talk will also be livestreamed for those who prefer to attend remotely. Further information and a link to the livestream is at wooster.edu\/forum.<\/p>\n\n

While tonight\u2019s session will launch this critical conversation, I hope you\u2019ll save the dates and continue the dialogue at our next two lectures:<\/p>\n\n

Wednesday, September 17 (7:30 p.m.): Jamal Greene, Dwight Professor of Law at Columbia Law School, delivers \u201cThe Art of the Deal: Free Speech in the Age of Trump\u201d as part of our Constitution Day and Bell Distinguished Lectureship in Law.<\/p>\n\n

Wednesday, October 15 (7:30 p.m.): Robert Talisse, W. Alton Jones Professor of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University, concludes the series with \u201cAcademic Freedom and Academic Responsibility,\u201d presenting the Annual Lindner Lecture in Ethics.<\/p>\n\n

Each of these lectures builds on the last, offering a rich, layered exploration of the challenges and responsibilities entwined with academic freedom. I encourage you to be part of this series in its entirety.<\/p>\n\n

Thank you for engaging in this essential dialogue that shapes the heart of our campus community. I hope to see many of you tonight.<\/p>\n\n

Warm regards,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nAug
18<\/span><\/span>\n\nUpdate on Salaries<\/span>Dear Colleagues, With the major days of first-year move-in now behind us and classes beginning on Wednesday, this week marks the official start of our academic year. I want to extend my gratitude to\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
August 18, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Colleagues,<\/p>\n\n

With the major days of first-year move-in now behind us and classes beginning on Wednesday, this week marks the official start of our academic year. I want to extend my gratitude to all who helped welcome our new students and to those who will be advising, teaching, and mentoring them in the months ahead. Your commitment continues to shape our community in meaningful ways.<\/p>\n\n

As is true across higher education, our College is navigating financial challenges and uncertainties, and as a result, the Board of Trustees has decided to delay final approval of our budget until we have a clearer picture of our revenue for the current fiscal year.<\/p>\n\n

That said, I am pleased to share that the Board has already approved a 2% raise for faculty and staff, effective September 1, 2025. In addition, I obtained approval for a supplemental pool of funds that will allow us to establish new minimum salary thresholds for faculty at the associate and full professor ranks.<\/p>\n\n

This adjustment means that many faculty members promoted since 2020, including those promoted in our most recent cycle, will see an increase in their base salary beyond the standard raise. If you are eligible for this adjustment, it will be reflected in your upcoming salary letter, which will be distributed in the next few weeks.<\/p>\n\n

Much like our 2023 special initiative for staff, this year’s effort to reset faculty salary thresholds reflects our commitment to recognizing your vital contributions and advancing our Strategic Action Plan\u2019s goal of becoming an employer of choice. While we know that work remains in making our compensation more competitive, this is an important step forward.<\/p>\n\n

I want to thank the Board of Trustees for their support and extend my appreciation to Provost Perfetti and David Putman for their work with me over the summer to make the case for these changes.<\/p>\n\n

With deepest appreciation for all that each of you do across campus to make our College strong, and with best wishes for a strong start to the year,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nAug
13<\/span><\/span>\n\nGratitude and Next Steps for Provost<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I hope that all of you are doing well. It’s good to see our College coming back to life with RAs, band members, athletes and others returning this week and\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
August 13, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I hope that all of you are doing well. It’s good to see our College coming back to life with RAs, band members, athletes and others returning this week and so many people across our campus making final preparations for the arrival of first-year students this weekend.<\/p>\n\n

As most of you learned this week, Provost Lisa Perfetti has announced that she will step down from her position as Provost at the end of this academic year. Like you, I am grateful for the immense level of commitment, effort, nuance, and care with which she has led Academic Affairs for over six years. She has given her all through a very challenging period, and her accomplishments are many across all divisions and facets of the College. Please join me in expressing gratitude for Lisa’s leadership service. I look forward to celebrating Lisa and her contributions with you over the coming months.<\/p>\n\n

While Lisa continues as Provost this year, we will launch the search for Wooster\u2019s new Provost. Dr. Ann Die Hasselmo and Dr. Chris Butler from the firm Academic Search will help guide our recruiting efforts for this key position. Over the next few weeks, I will request time to meet with our governance committees and would also value meeting individually with colleagues to help inform our approach and priorities. If you are interested in participating in preparatory dialogue, please reach out to set up a time to talk. And as always, please let me know if you would like for me to join your department or area for a discussion.<\/p>\n\n

With thanks for your all you do to make The College of Wooster strong,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nAug
6<\/span><\/span>\n\nLeadership Announcement: Lin Hillis, Vice President for People, Culture and Talent<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, Since our founding, the College of Wooster has sought to be \u201ca place of studies for all,\u201d where students of character are eager to learn and thrive in their pursuit\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
August 6, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

Since our founding, the College of Wooster has sought to be \u201ca place of studies for all,\u201d where students of character are eager to learn and thrive in their pursuit of knowledge.<\/p>\n\n

Wooster has, through many decades, evolved its approach for supporting students, faculty, and staff in service of achieving this founding vision. We embrace the challenge of being an ambitious and welcoming learning community, a campus where all members feel valued and, critically, where all learn both by listening and by being heard, in dialogue with others. This evolution continues today: starting Wednesday August 6, 2025, Lin Hillis, who has led the Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) with vision, expertise, and generosity along with Human Resources since October 2023, will continue her leadership service to the College under the title of Vice President for People, Culture, and Talent.<\/p>\n\n

I am grateful to share that in that capacity, Vice President Hillis has agreed to continue leading the College\u2019s team of talented and dedicated staff from the former CDI in our new Center for Belonging and Intercultural Dialogue (CBID). The CBID will be home to the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life, as well as International Student Services and other initiatives that inclusively foster in our students, staff, and faculty a sense of deep belonging that allows all of us, individually and as a group to reach our full potential.<\/p>\n\n

The new Center highlights our aspirations to provide our community with the tools to: engage intentionally and productively in intergroup, intercultural and interfaith dialogue; use those tools to cultivate empathy and connection; and build a culture that allows all of us and our community as a whole to function and learn at the highest level possible.<\/p>\n\n

These changes recognize who we are as Scots: curious people who are deeply committed to learning from and working together with our peers in pursuit of scholarly excellence and personal growth. These changes also underscore the work that is outlined in our Strategic Action Plan, \u201cFraming our Future\u201d and are the fruit of the labor of faculty, staff, and students who have worked over many years to bring us to where we are today.<\/p>\n\n

Please join me in thanking Lin and the whole CBID team for their commitment and contributions to this new structure and congratulating them on the launch of this new chapter. You can find them in their same location on the second floor of the Lowry Center. Please reach out to Lin or me if you have any questions about what this change might mean for you.<\/p>\n\n

Sincerely,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMay
23<\/span><\/span>\n\nSummer Wishes<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, How can it be Memorial Day weekend already? After the excitement of the Commencement week activities and culminating ceremony, I find myself thinking back over this past academic year. Certainly\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
May 23, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

How can it be Memorial Day weekend already? After the excitement of the Commencement week activities and culminating ceremony, I find myself thinking back over this past academic year. Certainly challenges have tested our resolve, creativity, and values, but they are all the more reason to celebrate the satisfaction and joy we experienced with our students at performances, events and exhibits, athletic competitions, I.S. Monday and the Senior Research Symposium, the Wooster World Cup, and so many other moments that, like our Commencement, are made possible through efforts of many campus colleagues over months of planning.<\/p>\n\n

With Commencement behind us and final grades submitted to the Registrar\u2019s office, we now officially bid farewell to the 2024-2025 academic year. That doesn\u2019t mean that our campus has come to a halt \u2013 groundskeepers are hard at work keeping our campus beautiful, custodial staff are deep cleaning the residence halls, training for ARCH is in progress, faculty are on campus for professional development and research, Staff Committee is planning our all-staff cookout, OLO is preparing for its season, everyone involved in our upcoming Board of Trustees meeting and Alumni Weekend is in crunch mode, some students remain on campus for learning opportunities such as our inaugural Transition to Career short course and summer research and internships, and the list goes on. Even so, we know that we are transitioning to a new season and with it, different schedules and a summer feel to our campus (even on chilly days).<\/p>\n\n

At this time of explicit passage and of taking stock, please allow me to share my gratitude for making the 2024-2025 academic year an outstanding period of effort and accomplishment. The College of Wooster excels in its mission because each of you commits to it, day in and day out. I\u2019m deeply grateful for everything you have collectively and individually done this year to nurture a welcoming, inspiring community of inquisitive and ambitious learners, on this campus where thinking, experimenting, and problem-solving go hand in hand.<\/p>\n\n

Thank you for a year well done!<\/p>\n\n

With my warmest wishes as we prepare for the arrival of new students, returning students, and new colleagues this summer,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nApr
21<\/span><\/span>\n\nAnnouncing Commencement 2025 Speakers<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I\u2019m very pleased to announce Meskerem \u201cMesky\u201d Brhane \u201989, a leader in international development and poverty alleviation initiatives, will deliver the commencement address at the Class of 2025\u2019s Commencement ceremony.\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
April 21, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I\u2019m very pleased to announce Meskerem \u201cMesky\u201d Brhane \u201989, a leader in international development and poverty alleviation initiatives, will deliver the commencement address at the Class of 2025\u2019s Commencement ceremony. For more than 25 years, Mesky has worked in the Middle East, East Asia, South Asia and Africa, shaping sustainable development initiatives in diverse country contexts. She currently is the regional director for the Planet Department in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region at the World Bank, where she leads the formulation of the Bank\u2019s strategy, engagements, and all lending, technical assistance, partnerships, and policy advisory work for sustainable development across the region. Prior to this current role, Mesky held several other key leadership positions at the World Bank in urban development, resilience, disaster risk management, and land administration. While at Wooster, Mesky majored in English and French, and after graduating, she received a Fulbright Fellowship to teach English in Paris, then earned her doctorate in political science from the University of Chicago.<\/p>\n\n

I\u2019m also excited to announce that two of your classmates, selected based on academic performance and peer nominations, will join Mesky in addressing the Commencement audience: Rayan Dos Passos and Karmellah Buttler.<\/p>\n\n

Rayan, a global & international studies and Spanish major from Jaboat\u00e3o dos Guararapes, Brazil, has served in numerous leadership roles, including as a residential assistant, class representative, orientation leader, and senior intern and tour guide with the Office of Admissions. He participates in Model UN, Club Soccer, Latinas Unidas, and Jenny Investment Club. He has been previously recognized as a Kendall-Rives American Research Fellowship recipient. Through his Independent Study, Dos Passos examined the political economy of U.S. bilateral food aid and its impact on trade and welfare in Mexico. He plans to pursue graduate studies in international economics or global development.<\/p>\n\n

Karmellah, a physics major from Canton, Ohio, supports fellow students as a STEM Zone intern, sings a cappella with Round of Monkeys, and participates in Astronomy Club and Physics Club. Serving as a research assistant in earth sciences and physics, she also coauthored a study investigating the inside-out galaxy disk formation theory with Laura DeGroot, assistant professor of physics. For her senior I.S., Buttler contributed to the next phase of development in a long-running project in physics at the College, researching avalanches in a conical bead pile, a critical system that applies to broader ideas like landslides or earthquakes. Buttler plans to pursue graduate studies in atmospheric science after a gap year.<\/p>\n\n

This year we will also enjoy the vocal talents of Brianna Swinford to close our ceremony. Brianna, a psychology major and music minor, will sing \u201cDefying Gravity,\u201d from the musical and motion picture Wicked.<\/p>\n\n

This time of year is deeply meaningful to me, and I look forward to celebrating our Class of 2025, and their many accomplishments together on May 17th. More information about this year\u2019s ceremony can be found in the announcement online or at wooster.edu\/commencement.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nApr
10<\/span><\/span>\n\nEighty-Six Institutions and Associations Lead the Presidents\u2019 Alliance\u2019s Filing of Amicus Brief Challenging Visa Revocations and Detentions<\/span>Community of Scots, Please see the announcement below and this press release from the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, a nonpartisan group of over 570 member institutions, including The College of Wooster.\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
April 10, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

Please see the announcement below and this press release from the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, a nonpartisan group of over 570 member institutions, including The College of Wooster.<\/p>\n\n

The Alliance has filed an amicus brief supporting a legal challenge to recent visa revocations and detentions of noncitizen students and scholars. The College of Wooster is one of 86 institutions that have signed onto the brief by name.<\/p>\n\n

From the inaugural address of our founding president, Wooster has been committed to being a place of studies for all, one where we actively seek global exchange as part of intercultural dialogue. Today, students and faculty from 76 countries call Wooster home. The fear in which our noncitizen students and scholars are living due to visa revocations, detentions, and deportations without due process goes against our core values.<\/p>\n\n

Furthermore, our community depends on robust debate to move knowledge forward, including controversial topics. This has been true from our earliest years, and it remains so today. It is antithetical to our values that members of our community be unable to participate fully in our academic community because doing so could put their status and freedom at risk.<\/p>\n\n

This is why, in the name of The College of Wooster’s mission, history, values, community, and future and with the support of our Board leadership, I authorized the President\u2019s Alliance to include Wooster\u2019s name in this amicus brief. I am painfully aware that this act does not materially change the situation in which we are living, yet I hope that it will provide encouragement for all of us to develop further our love for knowledge and each other.<\/p>\n\n

Sincerely,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMar
30<\/span><\/span>\n\nBalancing Acts<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, Our return from Spring Break tomorrow starts the sprint to the end of Spring semester. The time has come to transform our potential into results in labs, on tests or\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
March 30, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

Our return from Spring Break tomorrow starts the sprint to the end of Spring semester. The time has come to transform our potential into results in labs, on tests or papers, at public performances, games, and other competitions.<\/p>\n\n

While the pressure is on, we gladly re-commit ourselves to our purpose, especially as we witness our seniors individually and collectively celebrating the completion of their I.S. projects. Over the four years leading to this moment, these students have drawn on curiosity, benefited from deep mentorship, and learned humility, discipline, and confidence from successes as well as setbacks. This multi-year process will serve our soon-to-be alumni well in setting and completing challenging professional and life goals, as our generations of alumni prove. The rich diversity of the Wooster education invites our graduates and all of us who continue our lives within the College community to keep seeking insights and imagining possibilities for ourselves and others.<\/p>\n\n

Marking meaningful moments though the academic cycle inspires my own positivity, as does our daily work at The College of Wooster. For me, this includes collaborating with others to meet our ambitious strategic action plan goals, and importantly, promoting our College\u2019s educational mission. Over the Spring Break, I participated in the Presidents\u2019 Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration meeting, as well as a convening of the Great Lakes College Association schools\u2019 presidents, and other professional dialogues focused largely on ensuring the integrity of our work in higher education. And as consequential as these efforts are, I am also relishing a special opportunity to learn something new, namely, to throw a baseball. Our Fighting Scots Baseball Coach Swick has been generously teaching me fundamentals ahead of my throwing out the first pitch at a Chicago Cubs game that will take place on April 27 at Wrigley Field. Thank you, Coach Swick and the entire baseball team! The occasion is a special alumni and admissions event arranged by our generous and faithful emeritus trustee, Jim McClung \u201859. The pressure really is on, as is the fun!<\/p>\n\n

Through everything, our daily work, milestone celebrations, and fundamental purpose at The College of Wooster help each of us to balance in different ways. These things challenge us to keep growing individually and as a community and to hold difficulties, accomplishments, pain, and joy in our hearts and minds simultaneously. Our mission of preparing students to become leaders of character and influence in an interdependent global community directs our actions and engagements in good times as well as in the face of disappointments, uncertainties, and real dangers. It enjoins us to recognize the value of everyone in our community, especially students and colleagues who fear for their safety and freedom. It reminds us to appreciate the subjects we teach, including those that may, as has been the case at various points in our history, come under attack. It challenges us to pursue our work without allowing others to distract us from achieving our College\u2019s vision of \u201cgraduating independent thinkers who are well prepared to seek solutions to significant problems, to create and communicate new knowledge and insight, and to make significant contributions to our complex and interdependent world.\u201d<\/p>\n\n

The College of Wooster exists, as our founding president, Rev. Willis Lord, said over 150 years ago, to be as intellectually expansive and interpersonally inclusive as possible, a place of \u201call studies\u201d and of \u201cstudies for all.\u201d We are who we are \u2013 an exceptional College that elevates opportunity \u2013 because each one of us contributes to it.<\/p>\n\n

As we enter this final six weeks of the academic year, I encourage you to embrace this privileged time, place, and purpose, to appreciate how important each of you is to our entire College community, and to experience as fully as possible the liberatory power of a curriculum based on curiosity and community.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMar
25<\/span><\/span>\n\nAnnouncing Mark Goodman as Next Board Chair<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I am pleased to announce that Mark Goodman \u201990, chairman of the Colorado Nut Holding Company, has been elected as the new chair of The College of Wooster board of\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
March 25, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I am pleased to announce that Mark Goodman \u201990, chairman of the Colorado Nut Holding Company, has been elected as the new chair of The College of Wooster board of trustees, effective July 1, 2025. Mark will succeed Sally Staley \u201978, who has served as board chair since 2021.<\/p>\n\n

Mark, who earned his Wooster degree in philosophy, has been an active member of our board since 2016 and currently serves as chair of the audit and risk committee as well as vice chair of the board. A history of service to the College runs in the Goodman family; his father, a longtime mayor of Ypsilanti, was also a parent trustee from 1987 to 1990.<\/p>\n\n

Mark has extensive experience in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, having served in executive roles at Vistage Worldwide, Save A Lot, Boyer Coffee Company, Sam\u2019s Club\/Walmart, and McDonald\u2019s, among others. He also serves on the boards of several organizations, including Tufts University, Bellco Credit Union, and Delta Dental of Colorado. In addition, he is vice chair of Freedom House, an organization that champions democracy around the world.<\/p>\n\n

I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to Sally Staley, who has served nearly two decades on our board. Sally has always been a steadfast believer in our College, and her partnership in these first years of my presidency has been invaluable.<\/p>\n\n

Our College is on a trajectory for continued evolution and success as we execute on our strategic plan, Framing Our Future. Mark\u2019s unwavering belief in our mission and the value of our educational model will support our plans for curricular innovation and elevating our student experience. I look forward to working closely with him in his new role.<\/p>\n\n

Sincerely,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Froancophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMar
14<\/span><\/span>\n\nTransformative Gift to Support Residential Excellence<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, I am thrilled to announce that The College of Wooster has received a generous $6 million leadership gift from trustee Doon Foster \u201980 and her husband, John. The first $5\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
March 14, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

I am thrilled to announce that The College of Wooster has received a generous $6 million leadership gift from trustee Doon Foster \u201980 and her husband, John.<\/p>\n\n

The first $5 million of the Foster\u2019s milestone gift will significantly support the renovation of Otelia Compton Hall, one of our most historic residence halls. This will not only help us restore Compton Hall to its original beauty, it will also allow us to reimagine spaces and incorporate modern amenities and accessibility, ensuring Compton will be a vibrant and welcoming space for many future generations of students. Furthermore, an additional $1 million will be used to fund an architectural study for our oldest and largest residence, Holden Hall, a landmark on our campus.<\/p>\n\n

Compton will be the next in a series of significant construction, renovations and updates in the College’s residence halls. These include Andrews, Brush, Stevenson, Armington, and Gault Schoolhouse, and most recently, the completely renovated Douglass Hall, reopening in fall 2025 and featuring refreshed programmatic and community areas, air conditioning, an accessible entrance and elevator, new music practice rooms, and increased residential capacity in the form of all new living suites on the fourth floor.<\/p>\n\n

We are deeply grateful to Doon and John Foster for their steadfast support of the College\u2019s mission, and for this inspiring gift that advances our ongoing commitment to enhancing the student experience as called out in our strategic action plan, Framing Our Future. To learn more about this gift, Otelia Compton Hall, and the Compton family, please see this article.<\/p>\n\n

With gratitude,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nMar
13<\/span><\/span>\n\nRewards of Persistence<\/span>Dear Community of Scots, In these final days before the Spring break, we are immersed in hard work, anticipation, and, for some seniors, the relief and excitement of submitting their I.S. projects. The groups\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
March 13, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Community of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

In these final days before the Spring break, we are immersed in hard work, anticipation, and, for some seniors, the relief and excitement of submitting their I.S. projects. The groups of cheering friends at the APEX door and under Kauke Arch remind us daily of the joy that comes from achieving significant milestones and the strength we draw from our shared community. Whether we are seniors finishing I.S. projects, students in other years, faculty, or staff, we are united in our pursuit of both personal and professional goals.<\/p>\n\n

I.S. projects are especially meaningful to us as tangible outcomes of our mission and the culmination of an educational experience that depends on close faculty mentorship, individual effort, staff support, and a sense of collective purpose. As students share their questions, methods, research, and findings in their I.S. projects, they embody the true power of Independent Minds, Working Together.<\/p>\n\n

At The College of Wooster, our educational process is grounded in a commitment to excellence, free inquiry, and thoughtful critique. We intentionally nurture an environment that embraces challenging questions, unexpected discoveries, and the new ideas they bring. Our history reminds us that we fulfil our mission by fostering a campus where encounters, exploration, differences, and debate are integral to who we are\u2014a community of continuous becoming.<\/p>\n\n

External challenges to our College\u2019s core values, mission, community members\u2019 identities, and the very subjects we teach are a testament to the importance of our work. They reinforce that, in times of difficulty, we have even more reason to pursue our mission with integrity, creativity, grit, and yes, even joy, supporting one another in our intentions and endeavours. And over time, we see clearly the value of our daily work in our graduates and their impact on our world.<\/p>\n\n

In the coming days, look for some exciting announcements from the College. And may the spontaneous cheers near the Oak Grove in the weeks ahead uplift our spirits, remind us of our shared purpose, and deepen our connection to the work we do together at The College of Wooster.<\/p>\n\n

Warm regards,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President<\/p>\n\n

Professor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nFeb
24<\/span><\/span>\n\nFollow-up on Immigration Communications<\/span>I hope your week is off to a good start. Our campus shows all the signs of a dynamic place of learning, creating, interaction, and growth. This is as it should be. Concerts, shows,\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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February 24, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

I hope your week is off to a good start. Our campus shows all the signs of a dynamic place of learning, creating, interaction, and growth. This is as it should be. Concerts, shows, papers, labs, visiting scholars, and public events call upon us to stretch ourselves and imagine new futures for ourselves and communities at home and across the world.<\/p>\n\n

I write to you today about two areas of growing concern. The first is international travel for members of the College of Wooster community who are not US citizens. I have had the sad experience of knowing individuals who left the country for a visit and were never able to return due to immigration complications, and I would not want this to happen to any student, faculty, or staff member at The College of Wooster. At the same time, I would never seek to restrain the movements of a member of our community. I therefore ask that everyone who is not a US citizen or green card holder and is contemplating international travel consider that there are inherent risks to timely return after travel abroad, including delays in visa processing at US consular posts and potential issues at US ports of entry. Only US nationals are assured of admission to the United States. When deciding whether to travel abroad, it\u2019s important to consider potential risks that relate to your particular circumstances and visa status.<\/p>\n\n

On a related topic, Angila Tracey sent a letter on January 31 with guidance on interacting with law enforcement officials who come to campus. Staff supervisors and directors as well as faculty have since had an opportunity to participate in an online training from College immigration counsel on implementing our College policy. A recorded session explaining the policy is currently being prepared for students; as soon as it is ready, we will make it available.<\/p>\n\n

As Angila Tracey\u2019s letter stated and the subsequent training emphasized, only Campus Safety and the President\u2019s Office are authorized to speak for the College with law enforcement officers. If you are approached by an ICE agent on or near campus, you should respond that you are not authorized to speak on behalf of the College; rather, you are instructed to remain calm and courteous and contact Angila Tracey, Secretary of the College. And then you do so by calling (330-263-2360).<\/p>\n\n

Please note that providing personal information on fellow campus community members can constitute a violation of privacy protections, including FERPA for education records and HIPAA for medical records, which means you could be breaking the law if you provide information about others. At the same time, it is also against the law to obstruct investigations. You could be charged with federal crimes such as obstructing law enforcement or shielding or concealing individuals sought by immigration officers. As President, I am personally accountable to the Board of Trustees in all matters including regulatory and legal compliance, which is why the President’s office has the responsibility of responding in such situations. For all of these reasons, it\u2019s important to follow College policy and contact Angila Tracey if you encounter law enforcement on campus.<\/p>\n\n

I ask that we keep in mind that the College operates in a lawful manner and respects valid court orders. Our academic and administrative buildings are open to the public, and that is a valued part of the Wooster experience. Residence halls, however, require a key card to enter and are not open to the public. Like any locked building, only those with keys are authorized to enter. You should therefore not give your consent to allow unknown persons or an immigration officer to enter a residence hall. Your role is to contact the President\u2019s Office to handle the situation.<\/p>\n\n

Trainings on institutional policies can never fully satisfy our thirst for knowledge or curiosity over how hypothetical situations might play out. As many of you have noted, there are excellent educational opportunities, trainings, constitutional law resources, books, articles, and podcasts on these important topics.<\/p>\n\n

Thank you for your commitment to being a caring community.<\/p>\n\n

Sincerely,<\/p>\n\n

Anne.<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJan
24<\/span><\/span>\n\nMLK at Wooster: A Week of Reflection and Engagement<\/span>Dear Campus Community, This week has been an energetic one for our campus, filled with moments of both engagement and reflection, starting with our inspiring Martin Luther King Jr. week programming. The prayer breakfast,\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
\n\n
January 24, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Campus Community,<\/p>\n\n

This week has been an energetic one for our campus, filled with moments of both engagement and reflection, starting with our inspiring Martin Luther King Jr. week programming. The prayer breakfast, musical performance at First Presbyterian Church, and justice dialogues throughout the week brought our community together in powerful ways, offering intellectual, emotional, moral, and creative nourishment as we continue to explore what it means to be a community striving for justice. I offer a special thanks to the planning committee, the event participants, attendees from local churches, our NAACP chapter, and the students, faculty, and staff members who contributed to these events, including those from the CDI, student engagement team, volunteers organizing Soup and Bread, grounds crew who cleared pathways early in the morning, facilities, campus safety, and the creative dining staff whose hospitality made it all possible. Your efforts helped ignite our hearts and minds during a particularly cold week.<\/p>\n\n

Beyond campus, this week has been pivotal for our country and state with the presidential inauguration, a new Congress, and newly elected state legislators taking office. While it\u2019s too early to understand fully or predict how some of these developments might impact our work together, we\u2019re working with national and state organizations to stay abreast of executive orders, be informed of new legislative proposals, and prepare with fellow institutions to advocate on behalf of our core values and mission that depend on our love of learning and each other.<\/p>\n\n

This week also marked the end of 2025\u2019s first full week of classes, launching another semester of our exceptional and simultaneously routine work: fostering intellectual curiosity, rigorous learning, and personal growth. I\u2019m grateful to everyone\u2014students, faculty, and staff alike\u2014who plays a role in making The College of Wooster a place where curiosity thrives and drives us to seek answers to important questions.<\/p>\n\n

Finally, congratulations to our student athletes on the AD\u2019s Honor Roll. I enjoyed celebrating this important achievement with you at yesterday\u2019s basketball games!<\/p>\n\n

With best wishes to all,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJan
16<\/span><\/span>\n\nWelcome To The New Year<\/span>Dear Campus Community, Happy New Year, and welcome back! I hope your winter break was restorative and that you are primed for the semester that has now begun. Returning to campus after my own\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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January 16, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Campus Community,<\/p>\n\n

Happy New Year, and welcome back! I hope your winter break was restorative and that you are primed for the semester that has now begun. Returning to campus after my own personal travel and professional conferences, I am energized by new and returning students alike, brisk air \u2013 a bit of a euphemism! \u2013 and the many events, milestones, and celebrations that our Spring semester brings along with the combination of humility, curiosity, and ambition that support both our individual and collective growth.<\/p>\n\n

Our annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day event series, which will span January 20th through the 23rd, sets the tone. Oriented around the theme \u201cMeditations on Democracy,\u201d the College will host explorations about issues that connect with King\u2019s work and vision on civil rights and social justice, activism, responsibility, and engagement. I am grateful to the many staff, faculty and students who have worked together to make this series possible. I hope to see many of you as well as members of our broader Wooster community at the Interfaith Prayer breakfast Monday, where Dr. Randal Maurice Jelks will deliver the keynote address, as well as the justice dialogues, concert, and presentation sessions that will continue throughout next week.<\/p>\n\n

One of the biggest milestones our seniors celebrate in spring semester is the completion of their I.S. projects. Like most meaningful efforts, I.S. requires significant time to develop and involves numerous steps along the way. On January 15th the first completed projects were submitted with much celebration. Congratulations to these students and their mentors! Most students will require a few more months before achieving this accomplishment that defines the Wooster difference and brings our alumni together, even decades after graduation. At I.S. Symposium on May 2nd, our entire community will learn from the work of our seniors and celebrate the many mentors and supporters that helped them along their journey.<\/p>\n\n

Athletics is also starting off the year with a combination of celebrations and competitions. Wooster\u2019s men\u2019s basketball team is currently ranked 17th in the country and has been ranked as high as 6th so far this season. Go, Scots! And our Athletic Director\u2019s Honor Roll hit a new record of 290 student-athletes with a 3.5 GPA or above for fall semester. Reaching this milestone required grit and dedication, and I congratulate our student athletes, coaches, faculty and staff on this accomplishment. All of campus will have the opportunity to recognize our student-athletes\u2019 academic successes on January 22nd at both our men\u2019s and women\u2019s basketball games. I look forward to congratulating our student-athletes for their academic accomplishments and to cheering on our Fighting Scots teams at the games.<\/p>\n\n

I too am starting this semester celebrating the leaders who have joined Cabinet in this new year. On January 6th we welcomed incoming vice president of enrollment management, Jason McGrath to Wooster. Jason recently moved here from Chapel Hill, so please help him feel at home when you see him on campus. And as you read in my previous email, Ashley Reid accepted the role of Wooster\u2019s vice president of student affairs. I am particularly pleased to be able to formally welcome her to the role she served so well for more than a year in an interim capacity. We are fortunate to have such talented, dedicated leaders at the College, and I expect their impact on the growth and vibrance of our campus community to be significant and lasting. In fact, we have new employees throughout campus, and I hope that the way we welcome them into our community, the importance of the mission we share, and the meaningful roles we each play in accomplishing that mission will help our new colleagues feel that The College of Wooster is their professional home.<\/p>\n\n

While our College will experience challenges that we will need to navigate with care and creativity in 2025, we are well equipped to succeed and thrive as a community of Independent Minds, Working Together. I look forward expectantly to continuing our mission of preparing our students to become leaders of character and influence in our world, and, as often as possible, celebrating beside and with you.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nJan
13<\/span><\/span>\n\nAnnouncing Our New Vice President of Student Affairs<\/span>Dear Campus Community, I am delighted to announce Ashley Reid as our Vice President of Student Affairs, effective immediately. Ashley brings a wealth of experience in student affairs and athletics administration that includes a\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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January 13, 2025 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Campus Community,<\/p>\n\n

I am delighted to announce Ashley Reid as our Vice President of Student Affairs, effective immediately. Ashley brings a wealth of experience in student affairs and athletics administration that includes a strong track record of leading institutional improvement and fostering inclusion and belonging within the academic community. Serving as Interim Vice President of Student Affairs since October 2023, Ashley will continue to lead our residence life, health and wellness, campus safety, student conduct, student engagement, and student success functions.<\/p>\n\n

Ashley has a strong history of collaboration. Her experience in multiple roles shows a steadfast commitment to supporting students, mentoring staff, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that further underscore her commitment to supporting students’ academic success and holistic well-being. In her interim capacity, she demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead multi-departmental teams, manage complex budgets, and develop strategic initiatives. She played a pivotal role in leading her teams through a rigorous administrative program review, developing strategic goals and driving continuous improvement across the Division of Student Affairs. Ashley worked closely with senior administration to design and begin implementing Wooster\u2019s three-year strategic plan, \u201cFraming our Future.\u201d She will continue this work, and play a key leadership role in our Higher Learning Commission accreditation process.<\/p>\n\n

For her more than 17 years in higher education, Ashley\u2019s career has been devoted to working with students, beginning with her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Walsh University, and continuing through her teaching, coaching, advising and administrative leadership roles. She has also demonstrated a deep commitment to The College of Wooster, which she joined in 2006. She served nine years with the women’s basketball program, including five years as the head coach, and has served in multiple positions since then, including Associate Athletic Director, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs, Associate Dean of Students, Senior Woman Administrator, and Department Chair of Physical Education. She served on multiple senior level committees including the presidential search committee in 2022-2023. External recognition includes having been selected for and completing the highly competitive leadership program, NCAA Pathway Program. Ashley has also served as a Posse program mentor and most recently as the College\u2019s Posse program liaison.<\/p>\n\n

With Ashley\u2019s commitment to the College and our mission, her work ethic, talent, and holistic vision of student development, thriving, and well-being, I am excited that she has accepted this key leadership position and look forward to her continued impact on the growth and success of our vibrant campus community.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
2024<\/div>
<\/div><\/div>\n\n
\n\n\n\nDec
6<\/span><\/span>\n\nWarmest Wishes!<\/span>Dear Students, As we approach the end of the semester, please accept our warmest holiday greetings! Congratulations on all you have achieved this fall \u2013 inside and outside the classroom, in athletic competitions, exhibitions\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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December 6, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Students,<\/p>\n\n

As we approach the end of the semester, please accept our warmest holiday greetings!<\/p>\n\n

Congratulations on all you have achieved this fall \u2013 inside and outside the classroom, in athletic competitions, exhibitions and performances, individually and in collaboration with others. Your dedication to Wooster and our shared community demonstrates the value each of you brings to our campus and our journey together.<\/p>\n\n

This winter break may provide you the opportunity to spend time with those closest to you, whether you remain here or travel to see them. For our students traveling abroad, please remember to carry all of your important documents with you, such as your passport, visa and I-20, to ensure your smooth departure and return to the United States.<\/p>\n\n

Enjoy this well-deserved chance to rest, reflect and have fun, even as you take advantage of the break between semesters to make progress in other areas, perhaps earning funds for your studies, working on your I.S., engaging in experiential learning, networking with alumni, or simply sharing your college experiences with friends and families.<\/p>\n\n

However you shape your weeks away from the classroom, I hope you will return in January feeling refreshed and ready for the<\/p>\n\n

semester ahead.<\/p>\n\n

Wishing you and yours happy holidays and a bright and successful New Year!<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne and Ravi<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nNov
27<\/span><\/span>\n\nAll-Campus Message About Senate Bill 104<\/span>Dear College of Wooster Community, As you may already know, Governor DeWine has signed Senate bill 104, commonly called “the bathroom bill.” This piece of legislation limits access to multi-occupancy restrooms by gender assigned\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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November 27, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear College of Wooster Community,<\/p>\n\n

As you may already know, Governor DeWine has signed Senate bill 104, commonly called “the bathroom bill.” This piece of legislation limits access to multi-occupancy restrooms by gender assigned at birth; it will go into effect in 90 days.<\/p>\n\n

You have already heard from VP Lin Hillis about the care with which the College is proceeding so that we comply with the law while caring for and respecting the dignity of our non-binary and transgender colleagues, students, and visitors. We will continue consulting our legal counsel and collaborate with campus community members on potential options for specific locations. I will share more information about our plans as they develop.<\/p>\n\n

Every single person on our campus contributes to The College of Wooster being the creative, ambitious, inclusive, and caring community we are today, and I am grateful to all of you.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall (she\/her)<\/p>\n\n

President\nProfessor of French and Francophone Studies<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nNov
22<\/span><\/span>\n\nGiving Thanks<\/span>Dear Campus Community, The calendar year may be winding down, but our campus is in high gear as we approach next week\u2019s Thanksgiving holiday. This is as it should be in the final weeks\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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November 22, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Campus Community,<\/p>\n\n

The calendar year may be winding down, but our campus is in high gear as we approach next week\u2019s Thanksgiving holiday. This is as it should be in the final weeks of a semester; at the same time, thinking forward to the prospect next week of stopping however briefly to take stock of our lives and the world around us can help us stay connected to our purpose.<\/p>\n\n

I started the week in Cincinnati, where individual meetings with accomplished, committed, and civically involved alumni and a group evening event made me ever more grateful for The College of Wooster as a place of deep learning, knowledge creation, and personal becoming. I write this letter from India, where the strength of our Wooster community is equally a reflection of our roots and a sign of our global horizon.<\/p>\n\n

Thinking about this month in particular, my thanks go to the faculty, staff and students who organized the College\u2019s election week activities. Whether canvassing or crafting, many of us benefitted from the variety of nonpartisan gatherings and conversations you created for our community. In the same week, our campus also recognized International Education Week, culminating with the exuberant performances of our annual Culture Show. It was the crowning event of a week highlighting Wooster\u2019s global traditions through discussions and culinary and community experiences. I am grateful to our talented students and those who supported them in bringing their own meaningful traditions to life for our campus. And all across campus, special lectures and final chorus, symphonic band, and dance performances, along with athletic competitions showcased the important learning that has taken place in only a few months.<\/p>\n\n

Last week I was also energized by conversations during the \u201cFraming our Future\u201d strategic plan open house. More than 100 faculty and staff gathered to share the early progress being made under each pillar. As we advance in our work, I look forward to more opportunities for our community to come together around innovation and collaboration. If you have ideas for engaging our community, please reach out to me. One important milestone of our progress under Pillar III to \u201cBecome an Employer of Choice\u201d is the completion of our first employee engagement survey, \u201cYour Voice, Our Future.\u201d Our 50% response rate reflects a broad cross-section of our community. Over the coming weeks, our Human Resources team will analyze survey responses to help us become a stronger community.<\/p>\n\n

At this time of year, we are ever reminded of the importance of giving. Generations of alumni, community members, foundations, and friends have come together since our founding to support the educational mission that faculty, staff, and students embrace on our campus. I am appreciative of the creative efforts of our Advancement team who have just successfully completed their Giving Woo Days campaign, engaging our extended community of alumni, families, and friends across generations to invest in the College through The Wooster Fund. The Wooster Fund supports virtually every program on campus and has a direct impact on every student, every day.<\/p>\n\n

Being grateful does not mean that we should be satisfied, be it with our own accomplishments or with the world in which we live. We do not live in a society where everyone is valued in their identities, origins, and beliefs, on the contrary; yet our community is plentiful precisely because of our differences as well as our shared commitment to learning. The College of Wooster depends on every one of our students, as well as on all the faculty and staff who share their wealth of knowledge, talent, and care. I am personally grateful to everyone who calls our College home, and I appreciate dedicating myself to a community where inclusion and respect for human dignity are shared values.<\/p>\n\n

May the brief pause that Thanksgiving offers us later next week help us connect our appreciation for what we have with all that we can work to become for ourselves, each other, and our world in need.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall<\/p>\n\n

President<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nNov
5<\/span><\/span>\n\nSpecial Election Day Message: Election Night Watch Party and Campus Support<\/span>Dear Family of Scots, With our quadrennial election day in full gear, this message is to remind you that The College of Wooster will host a campus watch party this evening in Lowry Center,\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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November 5, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Family of Scots,\n\nWith our quadrennial election day in full gear, this message is to remind you that The College of Wooster will host a campus watch party this evening in Lowry Center, including live coverage on the second floor as well as a “stress free area” in the basement. This special event comes to us thanks to multiple faculty and staff colleagues as well as to our voter engagement interns. Moreover, de-stressing activities are taking place all week long. You’ll find two fliers attached with more information. Many thanks to all who are making these opportunities available to our campus community.\n\nFinally, if you or anyone you know expresses discomfort that worries you or concerns, please reach out to a family member, colleague, or a professional at the Wellness Center or Campus Safety.\n\nWith gratitude to all,\n\n\nAnne E. McCall \nPresident<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nOct
31<\/span><\/span>\n\nThe Thanksgiving Holiday<\/span>Dear Family of Scots, The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is particularly dear to me as a dedicated time to reflect on things that matter deeply and ways in which they can center our actions. For\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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October 31, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Family of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is particularly dear to me as a dedicated time to reflect on things that matter deeply and ways in which they can center our actions. For me, these unsurprisingly include health, family, and friendship and beyond these, the joy found in learning, inquisitive students, accomplished colleagues, intellectual community, and our collective work supporting the mission of our College.<\/p>\n\n

While Thanksgiving is still four weeks away, many of you make plans well in advance. With that in mind, I want to let you know now, without further ado, that we will close campus operations this year on Wednesday, November 27 at noon so that all may have additional time to prepare your celebrations in the way most meaningful to you.<\/p>\n\n

This also means that your area leaders will have four weeks to plan with you to ensure all essential campus functions are maintained during this time.<\/p>\n\n

With gratitude for your energy and dedication to our shared mission,<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall<\/p>\n\n

President<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nSep
17<\/span><\/span>\n\nFraming Our Future Together<\/span>Framing Our Future PDF Action Plan Dear Campus Community, Thank you for joining me along with our Cabinet this morning as we launched The College of Wooster\u2019s new strategic action plan, \u201cFraming Our Future.\u201d\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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September 17, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Framing Our Future PDF<\/p>\n\n

Action Plan<\/p>\n\n

Dear Campus Community,<\/p>\n\n

Thank you for joining me along with our Cabinet this morning as we launched The College of Wooster\u2019s new strategic action plan, \u201cFraming Our Future.\u201d I hope you’ll see that the priorities we have set reflect our commitment to the College\u2019s mission and provide a strong structure to address the challenges and opportunities of our time with energy and success. I look forward to building our College\u2019s future together.<\/p>\n\n

For your reference I have attached the slide deck presented this morning and the full-length Strategic Plan document.<\/p>\n\n

As this vision of Wooster\u2019s future stimulates ideas or perhaps questions about our path forward, please feel free to reach out to your vice presidents, SPPAC, or to me directly. You can also submit your thoughts at any time through this form. I look forward to hearing from you and beyond that, to framing our future together.<\/p>\n\n

The time for action is now!<\/p>\n\n

With gratitude for your energy, creativity and shared belief in the power of our purpose,<\/p>\n\n

Anne<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall<\/p>\n\n

President<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
\n\n\n\nSep
6<\/span><\/span>\n\nNew Scots and New Plans<\/span>Dear Family of Scots, Welcome to September! It\u2019s one of my favorite times of year. The shorter days remind us that fall is on the way, classes are in full swing and the energy\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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September 6, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Family of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

Welcome to September! It\u2019s one of my favorite times of year. The shorter days remind us that fall is on the way, classes are in full swing and the energy on campus is bright and bustling. With the College\u2019s annual census completed, I can now share that our Scots family includes 1,730 students who chose to call The College of Wooster home this year. As I enter my second year at the College, it brings me personal joy to recognize the faces of returning students and hear what they accomplished over the summer break. It is also gratifying to observe how readily our returning students help the nearly 400 new students in our community settle in. This new class is \u201cquintessentially Wooster,\u201d with the qualities of academic excellence, community-mindedness, and keen curiosity we look for when bringing students into our community. Of those reporting class rank, more than half graduated in the top 10% of their high school class. And while many come from Ohio and the closest surrounding states, many more still come from every region of our country; 35 states in total including Washington D.C. That geographic richness extends far beyond our nation\u2019s borders, with new students hailing from 36 different countries. And while thinking of all the places our students come from, I\u2019m also reminded of our 51 students who\u2019ve gone elsewhere in the world to study abroad this semester. We can all look forward to hearing what they learned when we welcome them back.<\/p>\n\n

September is also the month we will launch \u201cFraming Our Future,\u201d the College\u2019s new strategic action plan. I invite you to join me on September 17th as I highlight exciting plans to build the Wooster of the future together. Without too many \u201cspoiler alerts,\u201d I can share that the plan calls for each of us to participate, collaborate, and innovate to contribute in the ways we uniquely can. For some, these will be opportunities to develop new knowledge through cross-disciplinary majors, minors and Pathways, and launching vital career skills courses for new graduates. For others it will be a fresh focus on campus community building and enhancing student living spaces, such as defining the character and amenities of residential neighborhoods within the new \u201cWooster Village\u201d concept and bringing new programming to those spaces. For still others it will be fostering the environment necessary for our College to become an employer of choice in the region and beyond. And through all of this, we\u2019ll be preparing for a comprehensive campaign to support and realize our vision.<\/p>\n\n

Sustaining and nourishing this vibrant community requires continued focus on the wise use of our resources. Please make time to attend the all-campus meeting on September 12th with our VP for Finance and Business, David Jones and me to review our current fiscal year budget. If you attended the last budget review in the spring, you\u2019ve already had the opportunity to appreciate the clarity that David brings to the complexity of our resources.<\/p>\n\n

The invitations for these two all-campus gatherings have been sent to our whole campus community. We will be eager to hear what\u2019s on your mind and ready to answer your questions during the Q&A sessions immediately following both presentations.<\/p>\n\n

I look forward to seeing you around campus when I return Monday, and to your insightful comments and questions in our all-campus gatherings later this month.<\/p>\n\n

Warmly,<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall<\/p>\n\n

President<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
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23<\/span><\/span>\n\nNew Year, New Plan, New Energy<\/span>Dear Family of Scots, Welcome once again to the new academic year! Each summer I eagerly anticipate the excitement of the back-to-school season. From the rounds of move-ins and student orientation sessions to the\u2026<\/span><\/span>\n\nREAD \u2192<\/span>\n\n<\/summary>\n\n
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August 23, 2024 \u00b7 Office of the President<\/div>\n\n

Dear Family of Scots,<\/p>\n\n

Welcome once again to the new academic year! Each summer I eagerly anticipate the excitement of the back-to-school season. From the rounds of move-ins and student orientation sessions to the start of classes and Convocation yesterday, we\u2019re off to a dynamic start. Special thanks go to our Interim Vice President for Student Affairs, Ashley Reid for her leadership and to all the students, staff, and faculty across campus who did so much to welcome new and returning members of our community with hospitality and care. Colleagues who went out of their way for our students include members of the facilities team, the Woo Crew and peer health advisors, APEX staff, CDI team, Freshman Seminar faculty, groundskeepers, alumni and family engagement staff, residence life staff and so many others. Thank you. That energy will continue to grow as students lean into their work in classes, labs, and studios; on teams, in shows, and more.<\/p>\n\n

Institutionally, we are inspired by this strong beginning as we prepare to roll out the College\u2019s new strategic action plan, \u201cFraming our Future\u201d in the coming weeks. The now Board-approved plan lays out our aspirations, commitments, and goals for the next three years, with an emphasis on accelerating academic program innovation and preparing for our next comprehensive campaign, doubling down on our mission, and building our community. We will mark this launch at an all-campus gathering on September 17th. Stay alert for details on that meeting, where we will discuss highlights of the plan and opportunities it creates for all of us to participate in our College\u2019s renewal.<\/p>\n\n

This fall, energy is also high across the nation for our Fall elections. With open minds and hearts and a spirit of collaboration, our College will support our mission of student development by continuing to foster an environment where civic engagement and civil dialogue can flourish across differences. You have by now seen Dean Sarah Sobek\u2019s message outlining educational programming sponsored by our College that respects our nonpartisan policy obligations. She and Dean Reid are facilitating a cross-campus election planning team that includes Rev. Erin Guzman and Kayla Campbell from the CDI, Anne Ober from our Wellness Center, Julia Zimmer from Student Affairs, and Michele Leiby with our Student Voter Engagement Intern Mentors Elora Agsten and Meg Wrobel from PSCI. These dedicated staff and faculty are coordinating events and resources to learn about the issues and election process, voter engagement, and civil discourse, as well as to support mental wellbeing and resiliency. This work aligns with our institutional mission, graduate qualities, and values for building community and sense of belonging. More details, including a webpage to facilitate cross-campus communication, are forthcoming.<\/p>\n\n

Over the summer and into this fall, we will pursue the work of balancing our financial needs with the resources we have to fulfill our educational mission. I recently shared that our Board of Trustees approved an annual budget that supports our aspirations while calling upon us to make significant strides toward realigning our expenses with our revenues. On September 12th David Jones, our Vice President for Finance and Business will join me to review the fiscal year 2025 (FY25) budget with you and answer your questions.<\/p>\n\n

Lastly, I understand that some of you were worried not to see me at Convocation. I was disappointed to miss this yearly event for the final phase of my cancer treatment and look forward to being back for our first legislative faculty meeting on September 9th, our women\u2019s field hockey game against Kenyon on the 10th, and the celebration for staff completing Managing Matters on the 11th!<\/p>\n\n

With gratitude for all of you and this new year we begin together,<\/p>\n\n

Anne E. McCall<\/p>\n\n

President<\/p>\n\n

Community Message from President Anne E. McCall<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/details>\n\n
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Keep in touch<\/div>\n\n
This archive will grow as new Community Messages are shared with campus.<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Community Messages Stay connected with President Anne E. McCall’s messages to the Wooster community \u2014 from campus announcements and reflections to celebrations, updates, and invitations to engage. 2026 2025 2024 The archive Messages from the President 43 messages 2026 Sep10 Budget and Compensation UpdateDear Colleagues, I write to share brief updates on the College\u2019s budgeting […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":167,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-84","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/84","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/167"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=84"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/84\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":852,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/84\/revisions\/852"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=84"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}