Dear alumni and friends,
It is abundantly clear that Rider students and alumni have a deep passion for their careers. During their collegiate years, they immerse themselves in their chosen fields through internships and other engaged learning opportunities. So many alumni say that those experiences were invaluable in providing a solid foundation for their blossoming careers.
I’ve found that some of the most passionate alumni tend to work in education. While it is true that educators today face extraordinary pressure amidst a nationwide teacher shortage, they remain undeterred. Our Broncs have never been afraid to face the obstacles in their path. In this issue of Rider magazine, you’ll hear from alumni who remain devoted to this challenging but rewarding profession. You’ll also learn about new strategies Rider’s College of Education and Human Services is implementing to increase the pool of up-and-coming teachers.
Freshman Valencia Gosser is also no stranger to working through difficult circumstances. Seeing this NCAA Division I athlete sprint across a track, you’d never know that she faced unbelievable challenges from birth that left her parents wondering if she would ever walk. Through fierce determination and passion, our Broncs rise to the occasion.
This issue will also take a look into Rider’s archive, a spot on campus the majority of students and alumni have probably never visited. Through a selection of items, explore Rider’s history from its earliest days to more contemporary traditions, like our beloved Cranberry Fest.
This fall, the University continued to add to its history when we publicly announced Rider’s most ambitious philanthropic campaign, Transforming Students - Transforming Lives. Since then, we’ve made tremendous progress. I am incredibly grateful to our campaign supporters, many of whom are Rider alumni. Our goals to invest in campus facilities, to increase scholarship support and build the University’s endowment, and to fuel student success through gifts to the Annual Fund will make a resounding impact for current and future Broncs. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Sincerely,
Gregory G. Dell’Omo, Ph.D.
President, Rider University