Five years ago, the college adopted a new tagline: Where thought leads. It acknowledges the college’s liberal arts foundation, mission, core values and practice of creating an environment where students can learn to think broadly and critically. After four years at Wofford, we expect students to graduate as citizens, leaders and scholars prepared to turn their ideas into actions that will enrich the communities in which they live and work.
We know that the Class of 2024 is ready thanks to four years of opportunities to develop critical thinking skills — through research, internships, community-based learning and study abroad. Mentoring relationships with faculty and staff and opportunities that extend the walls of the traditional classroom are also a part of what makes Wofford a place where thought leads. During the spring, for example, the college hosted the state’s first South Carolina Innocence Conference as well as the Southeastern Immigration Studies Association Conference and a visit from former U.S. Ambassador to China Terry Branstad, part of the Hipp Lecture Series.
This issue of Wofford Today illustrates the power of thought and where it leads at Wofford College … and beyond. As you read about Commencement and what’s next for our newest graduates, I invite you to consider how you can impact the students who are still learning, growing, asking questions and discovering their own voices. How will you do your part to support current Wofford students in their quest to become thought leaders, prepared to adapt to our ever-changing world?
Nayef H. Samhat
11TH PRESIDENT OF WOFFORD COLLEGE