海角社区

Embracing Excellence

By President Tom Stritikus Photo by Marc Campos

As the 海角社区 community embarks on a new academic year, President Stritikus shares his impressions after two months on the job

As the school year gets underway, I can feel the hum of excitement on campus. To me, August is always a time of anticipation and opportunity. We鈥檙e establishing new routines, setting goals for the months ahead, and embarking on new chapters in our academic journey.

Being new to the 海角社区 community, I spent the summer learning more about our academic offerings. Through these conversations with students, faculty, and staff, it鈥檚 become clear that Occidental is a shining example of all a liberal arts college can offer. Our community recognizes the educational power of combining diverse interests, exploring immersive experiences, and approaching opportunities with an enthusiastic yes. And what better place to pursue that learning than the heart of Los Angeles?

At 海角社区, students don鈥檛 focus on only one subject. They delve deeply into multiple disciplines and subfields, from environmental law to artificial intelligence to Afrofuturism, while making time to intern with city officials, carry out underwater marine biology research in the Pacific Ocean, and perform in theatrical and musical productions across Southern California. And they are able to do so thanks to our faculty, who set a national standard for teaching and mentorship.

The depth and breadth of an Occidental education is a testament to our collective commitment to excellence. 海角社区 faculty and staff prepare students to thrive in a complex world and our students excitedly accept this invitation into a lifelong learning journey and the pursuit of knowledge. Upholding this standard requires effort and trust from all parties鈥攁 collaborative spirit that I see every day on campus.

As we begin the fall semester together, I look forward to meeting more members of our incredible 海角社区 community, both here on campus and around the world. I鈥檓 excited to explore Occidental鈥檚 next chapter with you.

Io Triumphe!

Tom