Where Transformation Begins
Dear LMU Community,
Welcome to the new academic year! Whether you are an incoming student taking your first undergrad, graduate, or law school classes, a returning student continuing your education, a faculty or staff colleague, a trustee, regent, alum, or parent, I am so grateful to begin this new chapter of discovery and transformation together.
These first days of the semester are filled with anticipation. New relationships are beginning, and new opportunities are blossoming. There is a palpable sense of possibility in the air. In my recent video, I speak directly to our newest students about embracing the unknown, remaining open to new experiences, and being hopeful about the journey ahead.
These themes are particularly relevant as we navigate a moment of incredible technological change. At a time when information is more accessible than ever, the deeper work of education becomes even more important, and I am confident and hopeful that the fundamental work of education remains profoundly human. At LMU, education is about much more than downloading and transferring information; it’s about the formation of people — good, thoughtful, empathetic people — who together wrestle with and work to solve real problems.
This commitment is rooted in our identity as a Catholic university in the Jesuit and Marymount educational traditions. We are shaped by the legacies of three religious communities whose values animate our mission, each offering a distinct gift that continues to define who we are. From the Society of Jesus comes a commitment to critical inquiry, discernment, finding God in all things, and becoming people for and with others. From the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary comes a vision of education that advances the dignity of every person and works so that all may have life. And from the Congregation of St. Joseph of Orange comes a beautiful and surprisingly challenging invitation: to love and serve the dear neighbor without distinction.
One of LMU's enduring strengths is our community. We are mighty enough to shape the world and small enough to know we do so through relationships. Students learn from distinguished faculty, but they also get to know them as people. They learn how to collaborate and problem-solve while pursuing shared aspirations. Our students also become part of a network of Lions whose connections extend far beyond graduation, fostered by presence, participation, and that human desire to help one another thrive.
Our sense of purpose will be especially important as we look ahead. Continuing a long-standing tradition of welcoming the new academic year, the Mass of the Holy Spirit on Sept. 8 will also celebrate the installation of José Badenes, S.J., as the new rector of the LMU Jesuit Community. Throughout the year, we’ll continue our strategic planning conversations. I’m grateful to the members of our Strategic Planning Committee for their ongoing work and engagement. I’m also excited to share more about the progress we’re making through our Mission Priority Examen following the conclusion of our site visit, in which many members of our community will get to take part later in September.
This same spirit of open dialogue is reflected in the many gatherings that will animate our campuses. On Sept. 16, the Marymount Institute will host “Being Human in an Age of AI,” bringing together faculty and university leaders from across disciplines to discuss Pope Leo XIV's encyclical “Magnifica Humanitas” and examine the ethical, educational, and human implications of emerging technologies.
Of course, none of this happens without the dedication of people committed to educating, serving, and caring for one another. Provost Kat Weaver and COO John Kiralla offer a glimpse into the work happening at LMU, from faculty and academic leaders preparing for the year ahead to the many colleagues who are always working behind the scenes to ensure our campuses are ready for our students’ homecoming. We’ve been listening closely to your feedback and taking steps to improve the student experience across our campuses. To learn more about the work underway, I encourage you to bookmark the Momentum Blog and Building a Better LMU for the most timely updates.
As we begin this new semester, I hope you all take time to be present, get to know one another, allow yourself to be challenged, and try to meet every opportunity with grace and curiosity.
Welcome, welcome back, and thank you for being here!
With hope,
Thomas Poon, Ph.D.
President and Professor