Welcome back to campus! I hope that your holiday break was a time to rest and refresh, to spend time with friends and family, and to plan for this new year, 2008.

Making New Year’s resolutions is an annual tradition in many homes—whether it be losing weight, taking a yoga class, or calling out-of-state relatives more often. By making resolutions, we set our intentions for the next 12 months. That intentionality is something that, for me, is very important.

In his enormously popular book, The Purpose-Driven Life, author Rick Warren looks at that very intentionality. He asks, “What drives your life?” and:

“Knowing your purpose gives meaning to your life.”
“Knowing your purpose simplifies your life.”
“Knowing your purpose focuses your life.”
“Knowing your purpose energizes your life.”

In our professional lives here at PVCC, we share one purpose together—educating our students. I would like to propose that each of us take this time before classes begin in a week to stop and reflect on the work we do, on how we can be more purposeful and intentional about our individual jobs.

I know you understand, as I do, that the work we do impacts so many around us—colleagues and students. Our efforts truly have a ripple effect. Like a small stone cast into a still pond, the energy from one seemingly insignificant act spreads out again and again, reflecting understanding and caring.

So, this is my message for this start of 2008: Let us focus on our true purpose at PVCC, to change the lives of our students, and in doing so, give meaning to their lives and our own.

My best wishes for an outstanding spring semester and a fulfilling and intentional 2008.