Unity through our LMU Community

January 14, 2025

Dear LMU Community,

This season is traditionally a time of fresh starts, ripe with possibilities for growth, learning, and the deepening of bonds within our community. These bonds and our care for one another can help serve us in times of duress. And now is, alas, such a time. Many in our LMU family have been affected by the California wildfires, suffering devastating losses and experiencing trauma. Please know my prayers are with each of you. In moments like these, my faith in our commitment to one another expands my hope and fills my heart.

I have been moved by the many queries from members of our LMU family about how they might be of help to each of us. Donations to campus emergency funds are increasing; these resources support Lions presently facing hardships. The Pam Rector Center for Service and Action has compiled a list of partners who are providing relief. Along with these initiatives, Campus Ministry will host a vigil on the steps of Sacred Heart Chapel on Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 5 p.m. These efforts exemplify our tradition of being persons for and with others.

As we emerge from this challenging time, our semester begins with renewed hope, especially for our students–our vectors for the greater good, as I love to call them. May our time together be not just productive, but also joyful. Though this is my last semester as president of LMU, I will remain focused on helping our institution be an exemplar of creativity in light of our Catholic, Jesuit, and Marymount mission.

Please know I am with you in all ways as we continue to rise in community. Let love be our guide and our mainstay as we believe in and work toward something brighter.

With gratitude and joy, and with hope,

Timothy Law Snyder, Ph.D.
President