Welcome Back!

Dear Pitzer Community,

Welcome back! As we begin a new academic year at Pitzer, I write to extend a heartfelt welcome to you all. Whether you're newly arrived, returning from summer break, or continuing your journey after working through the summer, I share in your excitement and anticipation for the year ahead.

Pitzer College's mission, deeply rooted in the values that have guided us since the 1960s, is more relevant than ever. As we confront the challenges facing our society—globally, nationally, and on campus—it becomes increasingly clear that Pitzer's ongoing commitment to social responsibility, intercultural understanding, interdisciplinary learning, student engagement, and environmental sustainability positions us at the forefront of higher education. I look forward to partnering with all of you as we continue to lead and innovate in these spaces, across and through both difference and agreement, engaging issues rather than personal attacks, to advance our shared educational mission and purpose in service to our students and the world. This will take purposeful and consistent effort by all of us, as we lean in together in support of our shared core and community values.

The beginning of the fall semester always brings a sense of renewal and opportunity. On a bike ride through campus this weekend, Isabelle and I were delighted to see the hope and joy on the faces of students moving in and gathered on the Mounds. Our returning students are eagerly reconnecting with friends and mentors, while our new students embark on what promises to be one of the most transformative experiences of their lives. The Pitzer spirit of community and belonging is as vibrant as ever.

Of course, none of this happens without a lot of effort by so many. I am deeply grateful to all of you who have worked tirelessly to ensure our campus and community are ready for the academic year.

Here’s to an extraordinary year ahead!

Provida Futuri,

Strom C. Thacker
President