President Katherine A. Rowe sent the following message to the William & Mary community in June 2024. – Ed.

Dear William & Mary Community,

I hope this summer dispatch finds you enjoying sunny days with friends and family. I write, with gratitude, to share William & Mary’s annual Year-in-Review video.

As Judge John Charles Thomas HON J.D. ’16, HON ’18, LL.D. ’24 reminded us on a glorious late spring evening in Zable Stadium, W&M cultivates the “skills of freedom.” Critical inquiry, facts and evidence-based arguments have sustained this country since its founding. This year’s achievements help ensure that our country’s first university will continue to equip creative thinkers and principled leaders for lives of meaning and distinction.

Students, faculty and staff showcased their talents in our magnificent new Arts Quarter as part of the Year of the Arts. Vision 2026 milestones, including the Board of Visitors’ approval of a School for Computing, Data Sciences, and Physics and new marine science undergraduate major, weave modern tools into the timeless fabric of the liberal arts and sciences. Our community raised $57.2 million for student-athletes during our All In campaign for W&M Athletics. Gates Hall, honoring our distinguished chancellor, the Honorable Robert M. Gates ’65, L.H.D. ’98, puts the Alma Mater of the Nation at the forefront of international research on conservation and democracy.

I feel immensely proud of W&M’s enduring commitment to the skills of freedom. As we look forward to Independence Day next week, please join me in extending warm thanks to all who are currently serving or who have served our country. We honor their patriotism and sacrifice.

Best regards,

Katherine A. Rowe
President, William & Mary