Dear classmates,

When you think of Kenyon you must surely think of the glorious autumns.  Warm days, crisp nights, church bells, vibrant colors and the beginning of lifelong friendships.  It was, and remains, a magic place. 

A new Chalmers Library (a gift from an amazingly generous alumnus) has greeted students arriving on the Hill 35 years after our arrival. Our Olin was lovely in its own way but not built to last. All four classes are studying together again in Gambier whilst navigating a new normal. And plans are taking shape for an unforgettable Reunion 2022. (Mark your calendar for the weekend of May 27. All alumni are invited to attend!)

In other exciting campus news, the College just shared its new strategic plan that will guide its planning and actions leading up to the bicentennial in 2024 and beyond. It includes core elements like developing a computer science program informed by the liberal arts; enrolling, retaining and graduating a student body that is representative of the talent and diversity of our nation and the world; implementing a holistic approach to health and wellness, with an emphasis on mental health; and expanding its commitment to environmental responsibility.

You have also likely heard the announcement of the Kenyon Access Initiative which will bring more high-achieving students to Kenyon thanks to a $25 million matching grant from the Schuler Education Foundation. Any amount we give through this Kenyon Access Initiative will be matched 1:1 and will go to a new scholarship for students from families with limited means and those ineligible for government aid — up to $25 million. Scroll on to learn more about Kenyon’s strategic plan and the Kenyon Access Initiative (and how they fit into our 2024 bicentennial celebration).

As you read about what’s in store for Kenyon’s future, I hope you’ll consider supporting today’s students with a gift to the Kenyon Fund and (if you have the ability) making an additional gift to the Kenyon Access Initiative that has the potential to bring 50 additional talented students to Kenyon each year.

Kenyon couldn’t be Kenyon without our support. As the bicentennial draws closer, please join me and do a little more than you have in the past to help make Kenyon the special place it is. This could mean becoming an alumni volunteer, attending a College event, submitting a class note or setting up a recurring monthly gift. 
 
Thank you for all you already do and if your travels bring you to the UK please come to Cambridge for a visit.

Best,
Bill O’Hearn 

And now for a sobering post 50 P.S. Is Kenyon already in your will? Let the College know about your planned giving by emailing daleiden1@kenyon.edu.