New faculty hear from President Hemphill

Some of the newest members of the Radford University family met with President Brian O. Hemphill on Aug. 12 during the last day of New Faculty Orientation.

More than two dozen new faculty members gathered in Walker Hall where President Hemphill and Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Joseph Scartelli addressed participants and invited questions.

In addition to welcoming faculty to campus and thanking them for choosing Radford, Hemphill shared his vision for the university.

"That is to truly transform Radford University into an innovative, premiere university in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and beyond, with a keen focus on teaching, research and service," he said. "Faculty are very much key to that vision and bringing it to life."

President Hemphill outlined some of the principles by which he hopes to guide the university, including excellence, accountability, transparency and student-centeredness.

"I have heard this is a very student-centered group already," he said. "That is so important in terms of the work that we do, because it is all about how students connect to this campus and feel a part of this community. You are coming into a well-established tradition of faculty really engaging the students in meaningful ways."

As the fall semester nears – the first day of classes is Aug. 29 - Hemphill encouraged faculty to be visible on campus and to connect with their colleagues.

"Students need to see you beyond your building," he said. "Go to the dining halls and sporting events. Support them and commit to their success."

He also rallied new faculty to spread the word of Radford University.

"Take every opportunity that you can to share the Radford story with others," Hemphill said. "Share the great things that are going on, the traditions that we have and the things that make this place special."

Matthew Smith, the new director of the School of Communication, said he found President Hemphill's remarks inspiring.

"He has laid out a clear vision for where he wants to lead us as a university and I, for one, am ready to follow," Smith said. "His remarks stressed the need for excellence and accountability, and those are qualities that I can heartily endorse. It is an exciting time to be at Radford University, and I am honored to be here at the inauguration in the next chapter of this great institution."