Welcome Back Environmental Students!
As the new Director of ENVD, I am very excited to welcome you back to a new year. You have probably noticed that there are a lot of things happening in ENVD. New shades on the third floor, all studios back in the main building and some exciting renovations coming for CINC are just a few of the changes that you will see this semester. You will also see more monitors displaying student work and more examples of work around the building. This is all to support a goal of making our facilities feel like ENVD from the time someone walks in the door and to support a feeling of belonging.
The goal of belonging is a primary focus of mine. I want every student to feel like they are being supported in whatever their path is through ENVD. Sometimes this translates to big items such as new furniture and sometimes this translates to a short conversation of encouragement. A unique aspect of ENVD is that students come from many backgrounds and interests. ENVD students are interested in many things and have many different career goals. I encourage all of these pursuits. There is no correct path for an ENVD student – there is only the path you want to create.
And that brings me to the phrase you will hear me say many times; don’t just break the rules, make new rules. I believe that every student has great ideas and concepts that are waiting to be discovered and shared. History remembers those that are willing to challenge the status quo. The rebels, contrarians and the ones who dare to try something new are the ones that find what they are truly capable of achieving. This is your opportunity to find your voice. It is a new year and it is time for you to challenge yourself to exceed what you thought were your limits. Are you ready to make new rules?
As you can see, I am passionate about environmental design and teaching. I am entering my 25th year of teaching and I am as excited today as I was my very first time entering a classroom. The only difference is that now I know there is no penalty for challenging and making new rules. I am always excited to pass this on to you. You will see me often as I walk through the studios or the CINC or if you are in my 3114 class. I want to hear your new ideas for the program. You are the reason why we are here. I look forward to helping you along whatever path you are choosing to take.
Have a great beginning of the semester. And go make new rules!