Dear Antioch Alumni,
As my first year as President of Antioch University comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on all that I have learned and the deep sense of purpose that has accompanied this journey.
It is an extraordinary privilege to serve this University.
Long before I arrived, I admired Antioch for its history, courage, and unwavering commitment to social, racial, economic, and environmental justice. Today, after spending a year visiting our campuses, meeting with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners, and listening to stories about what Antioch has meant to people’s lives, I can say with confidence that I am even prouder to be part of this institution than when I first arrived.
As a long-serving academic leader, it is clear to me that traditional descriptions of higher education institutions belie Antioch University. We are a national, multi-state, multi-modal university composed of distinctive programs, perspectives, and communities. Our complexity is not a problem to be solved; it is a strength to be stewarded as we become increasingly coordinated and unified in advancing Antioch’s social justice mission—a mission that has never been more relevant.
At its core, Antioch prepares students not only for careers, but for lives of purpose, service, and impact. It challenges us to engage the world as it is while helping to build the world as it should be. In a time marked by division, uncertainty, and rapid change, that work matters more than ever.
Antioch’s future will be shaped by the continued pursuit of that purpose and by our willingness to adapt, innovate, and respond to a rapidly changing world while remaining true to our core values. Important opportunities lie before us. So do important choices. I am optimistic about our ability to meet both with courage, creativity, and purpose.
Over the past year, I have come to appreciate more deeply the extraordinary role our alumni play in that work. Across professions, communities, and generations, Antioch graduates carry the University’s values into their communities, workplaces, and professions every day. You are among Antioch’s greatest strengths and most important ambassadors.
I hope the stories in this magazine do more than celebrate Antioch’s accomplishments. I hope they remind you of the University’s enduring impact and inspire you to imagine what we can accomplish together in the years ahead.
Thank you for your continued commitment to Antioch University. I look forward to building that future with you.
With gratitude,
Lori E. Varlotta, PhD
President | Antioch University
