Benjamin Franklin once said, “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” The success of NAU’s alumni proves this to be true. Their accomplishments are a living, enduring testament to the benefit of an investment in the NAU experience. Robin Braun credits her time at NAU with the skills that led her to serve as a pilot for the Navy SEALs, as a rear admiral in the U.S. Navy and in leadership roles at Naval Operations in Washington, D.C. Martin Casado believes his years … [Read more...] about NAU: An Investment That Pays the Best Interest
Rita Cheng
Celebrating Accomplishments; Planning for Future Success at NAU
Having celebrated the end of 2018 and the achievements of more than 2,800 fall Lumberjack graduates, Northern Arizona University is looking to make 2019 another exceptional year. However, before we get too far ahead of ourselves, I would like to thank Flagstaff and all the communities of Northern Arizona for your assistance and support. NAU experienced tremendous success because of our partnerships with residents, communities and business leaders. I am proud of the warm and welcoming way … [Read more...] about Celebrating Accomplishments; Planning for Future Success at NAU
Running on Success
In 2016, when the Northern Arizona University men’s cross-country team won its first national title, it might have been hard for running enthusiasts outside of Flagstaff to find us on a map. But last month, after three years of dominating cross-country performances, opponents, media and fans know exactly where NAU and Flagstaff are. I had the good fortune to be at the NCAA National Championships in Madison, Wisconsin, for NAU’s first and third championships. Let me tell you, watching the … [Read more...] about Running on Success
Fall Campus Forum: NAU Thriving in A Changing World
Last month, Northern Arizona University’s faculty and staff from around the state gathered online and on our Flagstaff campus for the 2018 Fall Campus Forum. I enjoy the many ways I get to interact with our Lumberjack family throughout the year, but our Campus Forum is especially valuable. It is a great way to hit “pause” on our busy lives and take time to focus on the impact we have on our students, our state and our world. It is a time to celebrate what we have accomplished and remember what … [Read more...] about Fall Campus Forum: NAU Thriving in A Changing World
Higher Education Paying Off for Arizona Students
Last month, Northern Arizona University hosted the Arizona Board of Regents for in-depth discussions about Arizona’s educational attainment and NAU’s important role in shaping our state’s workforce. I want to share a recent column that ABOR Chairman Ron Shoopman published during his time in Flagstaff. His message reflects NAU’s conviction that higher education transforms our state and our economy. I am grateful for Regent Shoopman’s vision for Arizona and his commitment to NAU. Our … [Read more...] about Higher Education Paying Off for Arizona Students
NAU Keeping Pace with a Changing Arizona
For many, February means the romance of Valentine’s Day or the shadow of a groundhog that foretells future weather. For Arizonans, though, this month holds another notable celebration: the birthday of our state. Arizona celebrates statehood on Feb. 14, marking the anniversary of a unique addition to the United States. Many years have gone by since the start of our 48th state, but much remains the same. We still have an independent spirit, and a loyalty to the people and places around us. We … [Read more...] about NAU Keeping Pace with a Changing Arizona
Reflecting on Traditions
This month holds so many wonderful traditions for families and communities. The drop of the Flagstaff pinecone on New Year’s Eve, the lighting of the Courthouse Square in Prescott, the celebrations that bring neighbors together – our traditions unite us during this festive season. At Northern Arizona University, we understand the power of traditions to create a shared experience and common goal. We carry that throughout every day, because our tradition is not limited to any specific holiday … [Read more...] about Reflecting on Traditions
Why NAU?
If you have ever spent time with a child, you know that no matter how different their personalities or interests, they all share one thing: the ability to ask “why” about everything. It is a genuine question – a desire to better understand how things work and relate to what interests them, and a chance to enhance a discussion. I find that the question of “why” – whether it comes from a child or a colleague – helps me communicate things a little better. It inspires me to explain actions in … [Read more...] about Why NAU?
NAU is Educating the Workforce of Today and Tomorrow
Each year I lead NAU, I am more excited about the future of this university. Our growing enrollment means we are bringing outstanding education to more students, our ties to our community are stronger, and the quality of our faculty and staff is opening more opportunities than ever before. I am hopeful this is the year we leave budget cuts behind us and move aggressively on behalf of education in Arizona. The recession put too much pressure on tuition and fees as a funding mechanism. NAU has … [Read more...] about NAU is Educating the Workforce of Today and Tomorrow
NAU Working as Catalyst for Region’s Many Interests
What is the role of a public university in today’s business world? In the community? Questions like these come up often when I visit with representatives in the private sector and with community leaders who are active in- and-outside of economic development. But as there are multiple business worlds and many communities, depending on which industry, geography or social circles we operate in, the role of the university is multifaceted and complex and intertwined with its educational, research and … [Read more...] about NAU Working as Catalyst for Region’s Many Interests