Dear Students, Faculty and Staff, 

As we head into the Christmas season, I find my thoughts turning most often to gratitude-gratitude for what each and every one of you contributes to our educational mission and gratitude for the many ways our institution is blessed. 

Looking back on the past year, we have much to be grateful for. We were recognized as one of the top five universities in the West for the first time, and the Albers School of Business and Economics, College of Science and Engineering and School of Law continued to earn high national rankings. The White House named us an honor roll finalist for the 2014 Interfaith Community Service Award. The School for New and Continuing Studies, our first new school since 1997, was approved. We became the first Fair Trade University in the Northwest. Our women's soccer team reached the second round of the NCAA Division I Tournament for the first time and women's cross country claimed their first-ever Division I conference title. These and many other accomplishments have made 2014 a very special year for us. 

That's not to say we haven't had our share of challenges. And yet, I find myself just as grateful for how we are working together through moments of tension as I am for all the wonderful things we make happen. As we continue to engage and dialogue with one another openly, respectfully and with a shared desire to forge a better way forward, our campus community will only grow stronger. 

I hope this Christmas and holiday season affords you some time to reflect upon and rejoice over the graces in your life. Thank you again for your commitment to Seattle University and our mission. I look forward to seeing you again in the new year. 

Sincerely, 

Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J.
President