Start of the Fall Semester

Dear Stormy Petrels,

I am excited to welcome you to the first day of class! Please know that whether this is your first day as a college student or you are nearing graduation, the entire Oglethorpe community is committed to your success. 

A part of the commitment to your success is preserving the health and well-being of the community as the global pandemic continues to evolve. I want to thank you for getting us to a community vaccination rate of over 90%, continuing to wear masks indoors, and adhering to our COVID-19 guidelines. As I met with you and your families during move-in and other welcome weekend events, I saw many of you following the public health practices that allow us to be here in person this semester. Thank you!

As we get this new semester under way, please remember that every moment counts. Although there is a pandemic and circumstances are different than we hoped, I encourage you to leverage every opportunity that allows you to pursue your academic goals, make memories, and thrive. Relish in the fact that we are here together. Our collective resilience and empathy for one another are part of what makes Oglethorpe so special. 

I am filled with hope for the coming year. The faculty and staff will do everything we can to encourage you to grow and meet the challenges of the moment. I know how talented you are, and I look forward to witnessing your achievements! 

Best, 

Nick Ladany, Ph.D.

President