Welcome Back to Campus Message from President Freeman
September 5, 2023
Dear Members of the Boston University Community:
Welcome to campus and welcome to a new semester at Boston University. I am honored to serve as president ad interim and appreciate the generous reception I have received from many of you.
Since assuming the interim presidency on August 1, I have become immersed in all elements of my job—learning about the operation of our physical plant, the budget, what we do to ensure public safety, and, of course, how we continually strive to improve our academic quality and conduct impactful research. And I have particularly enjoyed meeting many members of our community.
Last week, Janice and I had the opportunity to greet a number of students and their parents and friends as they moved boxes and suitcases into our residence halls. These interactions powerfully underscored the importance of what our faculty and staff do to make the Boston University experience special for students and their families. Our students arrive—or return—full of hope and enthusiasm. Parents and friends drop their young adults off (or put them on planes . . . ) with hope and, not infrequently, also with some anxiety. They are placing their trust in us.
Our role is to ensure that the faith that is placed in us is not misplaced. I look forward to working with faculty and staff colleagues across BU to provide the robust educational experience that is our hallmark. And I am eager to get to know more of our students and to learn about their experiences, achievements, and aspirations.
My responsibilities as your interim president are no different from those of a permanent president. We will sustain the great momentum that was achieved during the presidency of Bob Brown and will make decisions that reflect our enduring values and that align with the mission of our great institution.
Looking forward to seeing you around campus!
Sincerely,
Kenneth W. Freeman
President Ad Interim
*This letter was sent to faculty, students, and staff on 9/5/23.