The end of February and the start of March saw a “flurry” of activities on the Longwood campus – figuratively and literally. Below are the highlights from the past few weeks.
Presidential Transition
March 5th is Founder’s Day for Longwood University; 2009 marked the institution’s 170th anniversary. It will also be noted in the school’s annals as the day Longwood’s 24th President, Dr. Patricia Cormier, formerly announced her retirement. President Cormier’s departure from the University was well publicized prior to this event; for me, however, her speech started the unofficial countdown to her exit while heightening the sense of finality. Given all that President Cormier has done for the University, the Athletics Department, and me personally, it was truly a sad moment -- especially so as I witnessed President Cormier fight back tears of her own. That said, President Cormier has no intentions of riding out quietly into the sunset, rather she wants to go out with a bang. Quoting Yogi Berra, she remarked:
“You know they say that all good things must come to an end. But … they also say, ‘it ain’t over ‘til it’s over.’ And even though we are a university and we appreciate good grammar, I’m here today to tell you that my work is not yet done, that IT AIN’T OVER YET!”
The President outlined her remaining priorities by citing a list of eight goals, which included: managing the current budget crisis, funding the University’s new nursing program, and gaining NCAA conference affiliation.
“The biggest challenge our Lancers face is not on the court or on the field. They are doing quite well in that regard … when we join a conference, we will be able to develop some rivalries and compete for the Big Dance, whatever the sport may be. Conference affiliation is a win-win for both Longwood and the NCAA.
I will be working closely with Troy Austin, [University] Provost [Wayne] McWee and our coaches to seek membership in a conference that will allow our players to compete at the level they deserve.”
Men’s Basketball Raises the Bar
Author John DePasquale noted, “The basic success orientation is having an optimistic attitude.” DePasquale’s quote encapsulated the attitude of Mike Gillian and the men’s basketball program during the 2008-2009 season. The team coupled their positive outlook with a never say die approach. Their trapping defense and up-tempo offense helped them to earn the most wins in the program’s Division I history. I had a great time watching as it all took place. Congratulations to Coach Gillian, his staff, and the players for a quality season. Given the youth, talent, and leadership within the program, I feel confident that our future is bright.
Let it Snow
The spring sports were placed on hold because of the mid-Atlantic region snowstorm. Golf, tennis, baseball, and softball all had to cancel contests. And if it were not for the yeoman effort of our grounds crew, women’s lacrosse would have lost their home game versus James Madison (see photo).
Admittedly, when I first heard reports of 6-10 inches of snow in Farmville, I chuckled. I assumed our local weather people misinterpreted the Doppler readings. Lesson learned. I will be listening intently in the future.
Fortunately, the skies warmed quickly as Spring Break began. Many of the teams are headed for warmer climates and we are provided a slight reprieve before the school year ends. My hope is that we continue our winning ways in the spring and finish the year on a high note.
