A bold vision for Beloit’s future as a beacon of liberal arts education

Credit: Mary LandenfeldA wise person once said that the only constant in life is change. This quote, often attributed to the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus, resonates deeply here at Beloit College, where change is not just an abstract concept, but, as Heraclitus understood, a fundamental force shaping our world. As we enter a new year, at a college still deeply committed to teaching philosophy, we reflect on the exciting strides we’ve made and the ongoing changes that continue to shape our college experience.

Last spring, in my first column, I highlighted three key initiatives: launching our career-oriented liberal arts-based schools, enhancing the student experience, and expanding community-based learning — all while strengthening the ties between the college and the Beloit community. Since then, we’ve hit the ground running. We continue to develop five dynamic new schools — Business, Health Sciences, Environment and Sustainability, Global and Public Service, and Media and the Arts — all designed to meet the ever-evolving needs of our students and the world. We’ve also revamped vital campus spaces, with the newly-renovated Morse Library now open and serving students, faculty, staff, and the wider community.

On the food front, we’ve reignited campus dining with the return of DK’s to Pearsons Hall, bringing meals back to the academic heart of campus. And with the opening of Hamiltons in the Powerhouse, we’ve bid a fond farewell to the Commons and ushered in a new era of campus dining. Our commitment to the student experience is stronger than ever, with ongoing upgrades to dorms and more. We’re also embracing the future of athletics, introducing women’s flag football and e-sports to keep us on the cutting edge of popular, emerging sports.

These initiatives are more than just updates; they represent a bold vision for Beloit’s future, a future that is continually adapting to meet the needs of our students, faculty, and the world around us. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together in the past year, and I’m eager to face the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

As a philosophy professor turned president, one thing remains unchanged — beyond my steadfast commitment to the liberal arts — my unwavering dedication to strengthening our bond with you, our alumni. I am committed to ensuring that Beloit remains a beacon of transformative liberal arts education for generations to come, a place where current and future alumni can return to experience the warmth of the familiar, yet in a new and evolving way.

From the president’s nook,
Eric Boynton