To the Editor,
Alexis Eckert, Class of 2025 Sommerville Scholar, delivered the keynote at the Academic Awards Ceremony on April 18th, serving as a powerful reminder: the University of Lynchburg stands at a crossroads. As Ms. Eckert so eloquently stated, a liberal arts education’s core is to foster critical thinking, the courage to question, and the ability to articulate one’s convictions. We should be proud that our institution produces graduates who embody these ideals.
Her words delivered a necessary challenge and a call for acknowledging the very real frustrations stemming from the events that occurred last year and the tangible impact on the campus community. Impacts that are still unfolding. She highlighted her deep concern for the faculty and staff, urging the University to openly address the anxieties surrounding job security, increased workloads, and the overall climate of support. Our faculty and staff are the backbone of the student experience, and their commitment and dedication to the institution are unquestioned. They have experienced the uncertainty and churn that comes with unprecedented organizational change. Saying “Thank you for your hard work” doesn’t come close to being enough, but we will continue to work on finding ways to express our gratitude.
It is imperative to acknowledge the financial realities that have driven some of the restructuring. The long-term health of the University is without question our top priority. Yet, as Ms. Eckert skillfully pointed out, financial constraints cannot excuse a perceived lack of empathy and transparency.
The path forward demands open dialogue, a renewed commitment to shared governance, and most importantly, a genuine willingness to listen to and act upon the concerns of all members of our community. We must find a way to balance financial responsibility with our core values.
This is our University. Its future depends on our collective commitment to positive change. Ms. Eckert’s speech serves as a powerful catalyst for this change, and we must answer the call.
Jeremy Welsh
VP & Chief Academic Officer
University of Lynchburg
