I write this column in The Norwich Guidon realizing it is the last one of the academic year. I cannot believe how fast this year has gone, and I am sure our seniors feel the same way. I want to congratulate all the seniors for their leadership at Norwich throughout their time with us. A particular thanks and congratulations to Cadet Colonel Jacob Sortiriadis and Student Senate President Josh Creighton.

I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Colonel Scott Henne, NU'78, as our new Deputy Commandant. Colonel Henne will be assuming his position in late May, and I know he will be a fabulous addition to the Norwich University staff. He is very excited about returning to Norwich and mentoring the leadership of the Corps of Cadets.

This has been a year with a number of changes and new initiatives. Even though we are quickly approaching the end of the year, I will continue to draw together the leadership of the Corps of Cadets and the civilian Student Senate in the form of a Coordinating Council. We will be working on next year's agenda and how both groups will work together to develop a stronger and more cohesive student body. We will also work on issues that are directly relevant to both lifestyles.

I want to commend the faculty for their hard work during this academic year on behalf of all of our students and all of the Norwich staff for their great support, keeping our facilities running and clean, and supporting the administrative functions to keep a vibrant University going. The last open house, as well as a review of the admissions data to date, indicate that we are going to have a wonderful new class in the fall, both in the number of students and in their academic preparation quality.

We are beginning to hear from Norwich alums in Iraq. So far, all appear to be safe and carrying out their duties, as expected. I am sure over the course of the summer we will be getting more letters, which I will save for the first edition of the Guidon in the fall. If you know of any Norwich students or alumni presently serving in Iraq, I ask that you email me, especially if you have their address.

I trust that in the remaining few days of the term that everyone will focus on preparation for final examinations. One of my early commanding officers used to say, "Planning equals performance." You need to plan your time if you anticipate performing well. More importantly, you need to put in the time!!

Good luck to each of you as you enter final exams. Have a safe and enjoyable summer. To our seniors, I will say more to you at Commencement, but to our returning upperclassmen, we look forward to the start of a new academic year.

Norwich Forever!

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