March 18, 2016

Dear Friends,

I write to invite you to participate in an important effort to explore who we are, to imagine what our collective future might be, and to consider how Middlebury might lead and contribute as a global academic community.

Envisioning Middlebury is a yearlong conversation, designed to engage all of Middlebury’s locations, campuses, and constituencies. The work we do this year will guide us in developing a strategic plan, but for this year, the conversation is the strategy. We will explore the many dimensions of Middlebury and consider the opportunities and challenges we face. You’ll hear from provocative speakers in both Vermont and Monterey, engage in spirited debates, and have the opportunity to contribute through surveys and facilitated discussions. More information on these activities will be coming to you from Provost Baldridge throughout the year.

The conversation starts with a talk on April 12 by Bill Maris, College Class of ’97. This initial event will take place in Vermont, and will be streamed live to Monterey and around the world. On May 6, Gardner Campbell will deliver a talk at the Institute in Monterey that will be video conferenced to the Middlebury campus. These lectures are meant to challenge us as we think about Middlebury today, and lead us toward a vision of Middlebury’s future.

Envisioning Middlebury is a meaningful next step in the life of our institution, and every person is important to this conversation. I look forward to your participation during this exciting and formative time for Middlebury.

 

Warmly,

Laurie L. Patton