Category Archives: Uncategorized

In his famous poem, The Mending Wall, Robert Frost coins the phrase “Good Fences Make Good Neighbors.” This phrase is often used to suggest that the best relationship between neighbors is a fence that clearly defines their shared border. It has … Continue reading →

One of the Hancock family traditions is to attend the Olympics every two years. So, faithful to that tradition, we were in London earlier this week. Our family has expanded since the first trip to Barcelona in 1992, but one … Continue reading →

Today I am announcing my training for the October 7 Chicago Marathon. I do this not only to emphasize my commitment to wellness, but also to launch a University‑wide emphasis on wellness. Why should this be important to me, and … Continue reading →

  One of my “guiding principles” that has served me well over the years is “there is no limit to what one can accomplish if he (or she) doesn’t care who gets the credit.” This is particularly true of MU’s … Continue reading →

As I was taking an evening walk recently with our golden retriever, Annie, it struck me how fortunate we are to have such a splendid campus with its well-kept facilities and natural beauty. We are so close to the center of … Continue reading →

Perhaps the single most significant event on a university campus is Commencement.  After all, for the university, it symbolizes all that we stand for, and for the students, it symbolizes all that they strive for and all that they achieve. … Continue reading →

Every university president’s job description includes fund raising, as private resources are critical to meeting the needs of the institution. This is certainly true at Methodist, and as we launch our bold vision for the future, it is clear that … Continue reading →

As I reflect on the all the work that went into the Inauguration festivities last Friday, and then the showcasing of the University over the course of the day, it is worth repeating that the event was not about me, … Continue reading →

On Monday, February 27, the Methodist University campus and guests from the community were fortunate to hear Lieutenant General Frank Helmick, Commanding General at Ft. Bragg, talk about leadership and his insights about Iraq. General Helmick, whose service in the … Continue reading →

Imagine my surprise on January 18 when Gene Clayton and I entered the Berns Center for a so-called meeting, only to find the main floor filled with cheerleaders, the marching band, faculty, staff, students, trustees and family—all there to celebrate … Continue reading →