Welcome to Bridgewater State College - a vibrant campus in the heart of Southeastern Massachusetts that combines the best of New England college tradition with innovative teaching and learning, cutting-edge technology and first-class academic, athletic and recreational facilities. I am privileged to have been selected the 11th president in the 162-year history of Bridgewater State College. As I begin the initial year of my presidency, I remain dedicated to the college's mission to provide quality, affordable educational opportunity to residents of this region and the Commonwealth.

Bridgewater State College's scope of academic programs and its institutional presence in the region have grown exponentially since its founding in 1840 by Horace Mann, the father of public higher education in the United States. From a one-room school, housed in the basement of a town building dedicated to the preparation of teachers, the college has grown to become the largest in the Massachusetts State College system with more than 9,000 full- and part-time students.

Our students are our future. By promoting high standards and striving toward excellence in our work, we will continue to provide a high-quality educational experience to the citizens of Southeastern Massachusetts and the Commonwealth. As a lifelong resident of this region, I have first-hand knowledge of Bridgewater's personal and professional impact on the lives of virtually every resident of this region. I am proud of the fact that more than 80 percent of our nearly 44,000 alumni remain in the Commonwealth after they graduate to live, work, raise families, pay taxes and contribute to the overall quality of life in their communities.

Whether you are a Bridgewater graduate, a parent, a potential student or are involved in one of the many programs and services offered by Bridgewater State College, we invite you to visit the campus in person. When you do, you'll discover why I'm extremely proud to be Bridgewater's president. The fine array of programs and activities will provide you with a lifetime of opportunities for personal growth and development.

As the new president of Bridgewater State College, I am both privileged and deeply honored to lead this college. On behalf of the entire Bridgewater family, I thank you for visiting our Web site, and I look forward to seeing you on our campus in the future.