Dear Loyola community,
It is with a great sense of joy and gratitude that I write this letter to you on my first day as your President. Walking into Marquette Hall this morning, I was filled with pride and hope for all our futures as we think and work together for the betterment of our students and our community.
My first days in town confirm to me that New Orleans and Loyola are special places. Tight-knit communities that are unafraid to open their hearts wide to new-comers like myself and my spouse, Susanne. While I was raised on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, I have been away from “home” almost 30 years. Much here has changed, and so have I; both for the better. As a result these first few weeks will be filled with exploration and introductions. My deep desire is to meet and get to know as many of you as possible. For me to truly serve you, we must have an intentional encounter. To encourage these interactions, my office has set aside Community Time, where any Loyola faculty or staff member can sign up for a time with me to have coffee or tea and conversation. Please use the form linked later in this message to indicate your interest.
I see the start of my presidency as an opportunity to kick off collaborative work with Loyola’s exceptional faculty and staff. Together, we will remain focused on cultivating the next generation of ethical and moral leaders who use their gifts and talents to serve their communities. I’m also using this time to continue meeting Loyola alumni and supporters. I’ve been honored to hear their Loyola stories and their insights about the university's future.
Since I accepted this role in March, I’ve been impressed with how the Loyola community lives out its mission – embodying the Ignatian ideals of faith, truth, justice, and service. We all understand the transformative power of Catholic, Jesuit education and I know these common values will unite us through challenging times.
As I am “new” to Loyola and New Orleans as a resident, please do not hesitate to suggest to me your favorite places to eat, enjoy a cold beverage, and places to visit that are quintessentially New Orleans. In the same vein, please do not hesitate to share Loyola’s traditions with me! I look forward to integrating deeply into the Wolf Pack! Howl by using this survey to share your recommendations and indicate your interest in Community Time.
I pray you take this summer to recharge so we can be jointly ready to confidently step into a future filled with hope and promise. I can’t wait to see what we will accomplish together.
With best wishes and gratitude,
Dr. Xavier Cole
President
