Welcome to what I hope will be a regular weekly blog to detail my “freshman year” at the University of Houston-Victoria. Just like members of our UHV freshman class, I packed all my worldly belongings into cardboard boxes and moved them into a rental here in Victoria. I’ve now begun the process of getting to know the university and the community. (I have enjoyed rediscovering Texas barbecue, which I have had to live without for many years, at places like Mumford’s and the Fire Pit. I know there are many other good places I have yet to visit. Perhaps you would like to suggest your favorite.) As I start this blog, I plan to focus on what I am learning about my new home. As we get to know one another, I will focus on what I think is the vision for the university’s future and, I hope, also a vision for Victoria’s future.

I can start by saying that Laurie and I think that we have come to a great place to make our new home. UHV is at a dynamic point in its history, and there are great things in store for our future. The university community could not have been more gracious and warm in welcoming us here and expressing confidence in our abilities. And the larger community also has been open, cordial and welcoming. We have been impressed with not only the way folks have welcomed us to town, but also the enthusiasm natives and newcomers alike have for living here. We are excited about our future in our new hometown.

And there is good work to be done at the university. I am encouraged by the caliber of professionals I have encountered across campus. It is clear that people feel strong loyalty to this institution and are ready to do their part in working to make UHV the best university it can be. The goal of making UHV a Destination University is doable. The goal of having 6,000 students on the Victoria campus can be accomplished. At the same time, Katy and its immediate area will be experiencing significant growth. I believe this also will result in a substantial increase in enrollment at UHV Katy. It will require a great deal of hard work, and there will be difficult decisions and hard choices to make. I believe this is a faculty and staff who are willing to do both. I cannot do it alone. But we can do it together. I look forward to the adventure. Here, We Go!