Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1504065
wbjournal.com | July 24, 2023 | Worcester Business Journal 15 wo years ago, my family and I moved to Worcester. I had just accepted the offer to serve as president of the College of the Holy Cross and we looked forward to making this new city feel like home. We were warmly welcomed by our neighbors, new colleagues, and city leaders who generously shared their experiences and hopes for the partnership between Holy Cross and Worcester. It soon became clear how opportune this moment could be to deepen the bonds between the College and the city. At Holy Cross, our mission calls for us to live and learn in community, as people for and with others. To do this well, we will do it together: emphasizing opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to be truly in and of the city, and creating a welcoming and collaborative environment on campus for our neighbors. In February 2023, we launched Aspire, our new strategic plan that outlines a bold vision for the future of Holy Cross and our relationship with our Worcester neighbors. In the coming years, we will shape a more relational and intentional partnership in several meaningful ways: • We will strengthen our efforts to recruit talented local students and employees. • We will enhance partnerships with local businesses and organizations to advance our shared priorities. • We will, as students, faculty, and staff, embrace and contribute to all of the opportunities and experiences that Worcester has to offer. • We will create a welcoming campus environment that invites all of our neighbors to participate in our thriving campus life. To everyone who welcomed us–neighbors, colleagues, and city partners–my family and I thank you. To those whom I have yet had the pleasure to meet, know that Holy Cross is excited to work with you in the years to come. I look forward to welcoming you to our campus soon and seeing you within the city. ‚ank you, Vincent D. Rougeau President, College of the Holy Cross Embracing Our Bright, Interconnected Future T 1 College Street Worcester, MA 01610 (508) 793-2011 www.holycross.edu (above, left) The new Prior Performing Arts Center; Holy Cross is proud to host hundreds of events and activities annually that celebrate Worcester's contributions to the arts, academics, and athletics. Special Sponsor Section