Welcome to Wilkes University » About Wilkes University » President Patrick F. Leahy
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Greetings From a New Colonel
It’s not easy being new—whether in a job, at school or in a community. I’d like to thank each and every one of you—our alumni, faculty, students and staff—for the way you have welcomed my family and me. We are thrilled to be among the newest members of this Army of Colonels. In my first weeks as Wilkes president, I’ve learned three things about our University. First, this community is singularly focused on student success—from the professors who take the extra time to collaborate on research with students to the coaches who mentor their athletes after wins and losses.
From the advising staff who crafts curricular and co-curricular opportunities for our students to the facilities team who keeps our campus beautiful, all of them work to make students successful. This is a place where the idea of mentoring is imbedded into our DNA as a community. Many of our alumni tell me it’s what they remember most about being a student here. Second, this community is committed to improve and to innovate. Whether working to improve student outcomes or identifying ways to keep Wilkes accessible and affordable, everyone at Wilkes is focused on asking a most important question: What can we do today to be better tomorrow? In the days ahead, I’ll be asking everyone—including our alumni—for their input and suggestions.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the people associated with Wilkes really care about this place. For those who work here, Wilkes is not just a job; it’s a vocation. For our students, Wilkes is not just a school; it’s a way of life. For those of you who graduated from here, Wilkes isn’t just your university; it’s your alma mater—in the Latin, your “other mother.” Your loyalty—and your personal success—is a testimony that a Wilkes education changes lives. A total commitment to student success, a spirit of innovation, and a caring community—what a privileged situation for a new president! I have said repeatedly that I would have relocated almost anywhere in the country for an opportunity to lead a university like Wilkes. To be able to do it in my adopted hometown of northeast Pennsylvania—a place that my family and I have grown to love—is a special privilege. I’ll be looking to all of you in the days ahead for your support and ideas as we work together to build a stronger and even more successful Wilkes.
 Dr. Patrick F. Leahy
Wilkes University President |
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