From the President
That was the question I pondered in my Inauguration address in my first year as the 16th president of Austin College. Since then, so much has happened. There have been new friends and faces, new programs and places, new buildings and spaces. Along the way, there have been storms, a pandemic, and the unpredictable challenges of operating a complex organization that have tested our mettle. What’s next, indeed?!…
A Date with Destiny
Story and Photos by Cary S. Wacker
… Behind the scenes of daily academic and extracurricular life, a new initiative was forming: planning for the milestone 175th year of Austin College as an institution of higher learning—the oldest in Texas under its original charter…
O’Days and the First Five Years
By Leigh-Ellen Romm
On a Sunday afternoon, Steven and Cece O’Day cross Grand Avenue, walking shoulder to shoulder to Wynne Chapel, this time to hear the A Cappella Choir. They could just as likely be headed to a soccer game, a swim meet, a research presentation, or a play—or simply to enjoy the campus they call home. October 30, 2022, marked the fifth anniversary of President O’Day’s leadership at Austin College…
Several campus buildings are sporting dynamic new banners as part of an ongoing Campus Esthetics project. Banners installed at the Mason Athletic Complex display pride in the ’Roos Athletics tradition. For more on the Esthetics initiative, see Connecting People & Place.
A Meaningful Life
By Leigh-Ellen Romm
What’s the difference between a good life and a meaningful one? Dr. Mark Hébert, Professor of Philosophy and Co-Director of the Philosophy, Political Science and Economics program, refers to Dan McAdams, the modern philosopher who suggests a person can discern their calling by figuring out their strengths and gifts, then organizing a life that draws on those things for work and family…
Depth of New Academic Program Prepares Servant Leaders
Well known for preparing servant leaders who step boldly into the world, Austin College has implemented a Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) program that is designed to help students explore and make connections across those disciplines…
Health Campus Takes Shape for New PA Program
Austin College’s longstanding commitment to pre-health education aims for the future with a new pathway for students interested in medicine. The addition of a graduate program, Master of Medical Science–Physician Assistant, expands the ’Roo footprint on the health care field in an area of tremendous need…
Resistance is not Futile – How Austin College is Recovering Local History
By Leslie Whelan, Contributing Writer
Thanks to the work of Austin College students and faculty, local awareness of Durham’s historical significance is growing. The Social Justice Walking Tour, developed in 2018 and currently led by Assistant Professor of History Dr. Felix Harcourt, illuminates otherwise forgotten Sherman landmarks such as Durham’s house and the former site of Sherman’s lost Black business district…
While studying abroad during Fall Term 2022, Amna Haque ’23 visited Wild Jordan Center with the magnificent view overlooking the old city of Amman. Wild Jordan Center is owned by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN).
Read more about Austin College study abroad on Global Learning for a Bigger Purpose.
Connecting People & Place
… As the campus emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic in summer 2022, the College’s leadership was taking a fresh look at the physical environment of the campus. “We realized it was important to reconnect with each other in spaces that provide comfort, familiarity, and inspiration,” Kowert explained…
Going Global While Living Local – First-Year Cohort Launches Residential Program
The newly formed Global Living Learning Community (GLLC) in the Jordan Family Language House not only fills a wing of the unique residence hall, but also helps interested first-year students engage in global learning from the start of their Austin College experience.
Global Learning for a Bigger Purpose
As post-pandemic travel conditions continue to improve, Austin College students have returned to study abroad. Semester programs and JanTerm courses provide opportunities for students to become more independent and start to develop their role for good in the global community. Of the 16 students who studied abroad in 2022, these three have shared their favorite experiences…
Apple Stadium Becomes a Bright Spot for All ‘Roos
The May 22 groundbreaking ceremony at Jerry E. Apple Stadium started the clock to complete the major enhancement project that would transform the facility and make it a place for all ’Roos, their families, and guests…
White is Ready for Crimson & Gold
After a nationwide search, Tony Joe White was named new head coach for the Austin College football program. “His accomplishments on the field speak to his football knowledge and pedigree as a coach,” said Athletics Director David Norman ’83 (MA ’84)…
Success On & Off the Field – Athletes Gain Support and Recognition
Austin College’s newly reorganized Center for Student Success and Access Services now provides centrally located academic support specifically geared to student-athletes. Cece O’Day is in her second year as Coordinator for Student-Athlete Success, and as a former Division III athlete herself, she understands the time, dedication, physical and emotional strength that are needed to succeed…
DEI Conversations Spark Change
By Carrie Johnson ’24, Contributing Writer
The identity of Austin College centers on life-changing learning experiences for its students. The College’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program has been refocused and refined to ensure that all Austin College students have equal possibilities to discover transformative moments that change their lives— and then, their world. Many of these experiences happen beyond the classroom.
- Bulletin Board
- Class Notes
- Hanging Up the White Coat
- Huckaby Recognized by Society of Professors of Education
- Author Praises Coach Nash
- Perez Works to Inspire Indigenous Leaders
- Recent Graduate Recognized
- Weerakoon Joins Post-Doc Program at Yale
- Highlights from Austin College Homecoming & Family Weekend 2022
- Distinguished Alumni Awards
- Alumni Bookshelf
- Alumni Speak at 2022 TEDxAustinCollege
- Honoring Our Sports Legends
- ‘Roo-Mates
- Joeys
- ‘Roo Legacies
- In Memoriam
In Other Words – Alpha Delta Chi – Past and Present
By Sarah Gunderson ’81
Established in 1933, the Alpha Delta Chi (ADX) sorority is the oldest social sorority at Austin College. Margaret Binkley, a freshman from Sherman, is credited as the sorority’s founder. It was felt there was a need for closer contact and good feelings between the girls of the dormitories and their Sherman sisters.
