Dear Collegiatians,

As we review the upcoming changes from the Trump Administration, we wanted to give you a sense of some of the key issues that may, or may not, affect, or not affect, Willard College.

First, there are reports that the administration is going to target for investigation all colleges with endowments above $1 billion dollars. Our endowment, thanks to careful stewardship by Dr. Jesse Spagn, remains well below that figure.

There is also concern about federally guaranteed loan programs being eliminated. Again, thanks to the work of Eufalua Cotton, Executive Administrative Secretary to Provost Lying, the paperwork required for eligibility in the program was never filed so, again, we aren’t worried.

At present, we have no international students after the fiasco with North Korean students.

We will continue to update everyone.

Eufalua Cotton, Executive Administrative Secretary to Provost Lying

The lonely walk. … As a leader you have expectations set upon you and outcomes that must be measured. In the same breath you must be mindful of “how” you are received in a room. Rarely do people talk about what you’ve said, but more so how you said it. You can buildout strategy, create data buckets, and show up with best intentions but your biggest rubric as a leader is perception. In essence you’re shadowboxing as you build and manage relationships within a 360° sphere. A mentor told me years ago, regardless of how friendly you try to be as a leader—you will rarely be received as a friend. Hence the lonely walk. … This is not a tale of worry but one of building your leadership acumen. Combat imposter syndrome by being true to yourself. Do not take or cause offense within professional exchanges. The Socratic approach is the best way to build trust and manage your emotions. Remember, it is the “Art” of engagement. Asking questions, listening mindfully, and dispassionately eschewing your own ego leads to better outcomes. You got this. Be well.

President Cotton, but please, call me Henry

President Cotton enjoyed a relaxing and healthy breakfast this morning.

Joe Hairnett, Assistant Director of Dining Services