As the next leaf of our history turns

This is a wonderful time for Assumption. A new era has begun. We look forward to building Assumption's bright future with Dr. Thomas R. Plough as our leader. It is a time of anticipation and of positive energy-a time to renew our commitment to provide the best educational opportunity for our students-a time to further share our talents and extend our community spirit-a time to rise, expectantly, to accomplish new goals, together.

As a College, we have pride in where we have been and what we offer. We are poised to move on to the next level in our development as an excellent liberal arts institution. Our new president's interpretation, articulation, and personality will offer Assumption fresh perspectives and momentum. Along with Dr. Plough, we will continue to aspire toward the College's "vision"-our founder, Fr. d'Alzon's vision for us- "Until Christ be formed in you!" To be on that path, it truly helps to be a dedicated life-long-learner, with a liberal arts base, of course.

The Assumptionists' "vision" for the College was laid out in principle almost 100 years ago. But, it was never about "then." It is current. It is formulative-active education. It is what is going on-present"until." No surprises. No pretense. Credibility personified. It validates everyone, symbolically, by encouraging us to seek the truth, take responsibility, and care for others. It assumes a positive, challenging, collegial atmosphere in which to clarify and pursue, purposefully, together.

Re-reading the College's specific tasks-its mission and objectives, I am reminded of why I like being part of this community. Its premise encourages individual and institutional pursuits toward "excellence." It has been said, "Be careful not to confuse excellence with perfection. Excellence one can reach for; perfection is God's business." Each of us is an important part of a community that reaches-reaches for excellence in academics-reaches out for others and each other-reaches upward and inward for spiritual understanding-and reaches back to our Assumptionist heritage for guidance. We can all appreciate that as we outline this new chapter in our history, we have an opportunity to participate in what Assumption is becoming as we build, learn-reach!

Examples of the ongoing results of our commitment fill this, and every issue of the Assumption College Magazine.

Nancy McBride

Editor