Dear Members of the Class of 2016:

I hope I am not the first, but one of many to welcome you to Elon Uni- versity. My name is Darien Flowers and I am the Executive President of the Student Government Association here at Elon University.

Each of you has come to Elon fol- lowing very successful high school careers. As part of finding your way here, you may have strolled through campus on your official visit or clicked through campus on a virtual online tour. Regardless of the path you took, somewhere along the way, you decided that Elon University is the place for you. Three years ago I decided the same thing, and probably for a lot of the same reasons that have brought you to Elon. We are here — you and I — because Elon is a remarkable institu- tion, without peer in the breadth of its academic programs and the depth of their quality.

At a time when complex problems require interdisciplinary solutions, this university is armed with experts in fields from accounting to theatri- cal design and production, from earth science to astronomy, from creative writing to finance.

Choose widely and well from the rich array of subjects available for study. Take some risks. Follow your curiosity. Tackle a subject you know nothing about. Learn that the unknown is not unknowable. We are here because Elon is a place of big ideas and high aspirations. New knowledge is being created every day by distinguished faculty and bright student researchers.

While you are here, make dis- coveries about the world and about yourself. We chose Elon because it is big and small, global and per- sonal. It is as huge as it will ever be when we cheer on the Phoenix in Rhodes Stadium. It is as intimate as sitting on a bench with a friend, debating the world’s mysteries — Nintendo Wii or X-Box 360, Bob Barker or Drew Carey, Gym Class Heroes or Plain White T’s.

College is a time to explore ideas — even ones you may have thought were “wrong.” Celebrate difference. Rock a few boats, including your own. At the same time, respect oth- ers. Practice civility. Protect your integrity.

Elon is an institution of purpose and values. We expect you, as students and, later, as alumni, to engage in service to others. Make a difference. Volunteer. Use your education for a greater good. Be a global citizen.

[box]

Upcoming SGA events

- Aug. 29: Students may drop by SGA office (Moseley 221-A) from 5-7 p.m. to meet senators informally and ask questions

- Aug. 29: Interest Meeting 7:30 p.m. in Moseley 215

-Aug. 30: Elections Packet; All signatures and speeches are due to SGA office at 5:00 p.m. in Moseley 221-A

-Aug. 30: Mandatory Candidates Meeting 5:15 p.m. in Moseley 217

-Sept. 4 & 5: SGA elections voting (online)

-Sept. 6: Newly Elected Senators will be sworn [/box]

As you begin this journey through higher education, know that we share the same goal: that you earn an Elon degree. That each of you fulfills your dreams, even as you extend your reach and set new aspirations.

You will be challenged and changed by Elon. If high school was a musical, college will be a documen- tary, occasionally a romantic comedy and even an action-adventure. But your friends and your parents will ap- preciate it if you try to keep the drama to a minimum.

You have the starring role in your Elon experience. We are a student- centered university, and you will find a strong supporting cast ready to help you along the way.

Become involved. Ask for help. Lead. Laugh. Have fun. You have chosen well. You are embarking on a spiritual journey, a time of self-exam- ination and personal growth. Along the way, you will be connected to the people of Elon and to its traditions in ways deep and strong.

If it has not already, this campus will soon become a second home. Elon University is often described as a friendly and open campus. “Long live Elon” is not just a phrase shouted at both Convocation and graduation. It holds a much deeper meaning. Our Student Government Associa- tion was created to enhance the re- lationship between the faculty, staff and students. Our main function is to represent the rights and opinions of the student body while upholding the mission of Elon University. As the Student Government Association ex- ecutive president, I serve as the voice of the student body to the administra- tion, and I look forward to being your voice throughout your freshman year.

Know that you have my best personal wishes and my commitment to assist you along the way.

Welcome to Elon!

Darien Flowers, SGA Executive President