The President's Message
Dear Friends,
You might recall that the last issue of the Magazine for McKendree was devoted to a celebration of “2,“ and we shared with you a number of stories about
students with double majors and the number of twins we have in our student body. I
concluded that issue’s message with the following sentence, “Look for more to come
about twos in the next issue….”
I am pleased to introduce you to Eloise and Quinn (pictured, right). My oldest son
Jeff, his wife Katy, and big sister Savannah welcomed twins to their family on March
1, 2012. Given the topic of our last magazine, I just couldn’t resist introducing
them to you!
The notion of sharing a bit about my family with you is also fitting as we publish
this issue of the Magazine for McKendree, in which we talk about one of the greatest legacies at McKendree and one of the
most often used words to describe the McKendree experience: “family.” This “Purple”
edition features a story entitled “Bleed Purple” and chronicles the legacy of four
McKendree families who have had a deep and abiding relationship with the University,
some for many generations.
As I reflect on the things that have endured in my life, words like pride, commitment
and dedication come to mind and all of them describe the feelings I have, and know
you share, about McKendree. We often celebrate the many changes that occur at the
University—you will read about a recent example in this edition, as we share with
you the news that we have purchased Locust Hills Golf Course in Lebanon—but some of
the best things about McKendree are the things that endure.
The pride we feel when Commencement unfolds on the front lawn. The sense of family that students have talked about as a hallmark of the McKendree experience throughout
our history. The deep and abiding affection shown for the University, as evidenced by Ruby Deppe, an alumna who gave a transformational
gift after attending for only one year, but who never forgot the profound influence
McKendree had on her life.
These stories speak volumes about who we are and what we value at McKendree. I hope
you read this issue with pride as we share with you the latest news and accomplishments.
I also hope you feel a sense of dedication and commitment to the legacy that we all
share as members of the McKendree family.
Sincerely,
Jim Dennis
President
