President's Pen - Summer 2023
When I was a doctoral student studying higher education, my advisor, Robert Birnbaum, a former college president himself, was keen to remind me that I could count on a bumpy career navigating an unpredictable road in higher education. He noted that the education engine always jostles back and forth trying to make sense of a confusing world in pursuit of a very worthy calling: preparing the next generation of citizens.
Robert was fond of saying, “As they say in the bayou country, ‘Plus les choses changent, plus careste lameme,’” which translates to ‘In times like these, it is good to remember there have always been times like these.’ After several decades on this road, I now better understand what he meant: The challenges of adaptation are never-ending.
For nearly 200 years, Roanoke College has faced the opportunities and challenges of the day and has become its next best self. While our mission has been stable, the “how” has morphed again and again to meet both the bumps and the promise of the road before us.
Now, we’ve entered a critical period for all colleges and universities, especially the powerfully important small college. We’re going to need you, our alumni and friends, to support Roanoke College and its future like never before — but in the same spirit as every previous generation that has loved the Maroon family since 1842.
I am so excited that it’s our turn to receive the baton. Lest we lose track of our purpose on this journey, remember that it is about the next generations of students. In the end, when a single student finds a calling, becomes compelled by the cause of justice, learns to care for humanity, discovers a talent, hones a skill or finds the courage to speak up for a value, the world stretches. Potential becomes reality.
It is, therefore, with hope that Maroons greet each day with a spirit of service to the world we hope to see. Thank you for being deeply and collectively connected to such a worthy calling.
In closing, I want to thank you for embracing my family and me in so many generous ways. It’s hard to fathom that I’m wrapping up my first year as president of Roanoke College. It has been a joyful ride full of beautiful people, big challenges and a deep realization that the health of the next generation is tethered to the work and mission of places like Roanoke College.
With hope,
Frank Shushok Jr.
This column was originally published in Issue One, 2023, of Roanoke College Magazine. You may read the full issue on the magazine archives page.