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Bentley library in the snow on a sunny day

A Warm Welcome Back and a Look Ahead

Jan. 21, 2025

Dear students,

Arrivals and returns, celebrations and commemorations — this is a momentous week for us all.  

Yesterday was a day to get settled, catch up with friends and take a breath before starting classes. At the same time, history played out across the national stage as we simultaneously honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and witnessed the inauguration of the next president of the United States. 

This whirlwind of events is a reminder that the world is continually changing, requiring us to anticipate, adapt and seize opportunities when we can. The strongest organizations are the ones that are future-focused and plan for change even when the way ahead is not entirely clear. At Bentley, we try to emulate that model of anticipating changes to prepare our students and our university for what’s next.

We are fortunate to be part of an active and vibrant academic community where we have access to countless opportunities to learn. I encourage you to use this semester to stretch beyond your comfort zone and take advantage of all that Bentley has to offer. Attend an event you might have skipped. Collaborate with a new classmate. Take on an exciting new project that pushes your boundaries. 

All of us — students, faculty and staff — should participate in the MLK 2025: Action for Justice day of programming on Tuesday, Jan. 28. In lieu of regularly scheduled classes and meetings, I encourage all students, faculty and staff to engage, meet new people, consider new ideas and connect them to what you’re learning, teaching or researching. I am especially proud of the many student and alumni speakers highlighted during the program. Together, we can create an environment where exploration, innovation and excellence flourish.

I know that as the world around us changes, your commitment to learning and doing your best — that will never change. I look forward to seeing all that we will accomplish together in the months ahead.

Sincerely, 

President Chrite