Photo: John O'BoyleThere is no more exciting time on campus than the beginning of a new academic year. And the start of Fall 2022 was no exception. In fact, it was one of the most special starts to an academic year because the University Center Complex welcomed its first full-time residents and became integrated into university life.

This issue of The Indicator introduces you to this magnificent space, from its state-of-the-art residential rooms to the multitude of student and event spaces. There are three new dining venues — including Pi Kitchen, a fine-dining option for our community, a fitness center, offices for Student Affairs staff, study spaces and multiple areas with spectacular views of New York City.

It was also wonderful to see many of you back on campus for our inaugural Fall Festival. What a special weekend it was, particularly the lighting of the Empire State Building in Stevens red! It was a sight to behold and true recognition of Stevens’ impact in our region and the world.

While I continue to take pride in all that we have accomplished, what excites me as I write this letter is the trajectory of our future. Stevens’ new Strategic Plan, Inspired by Humanity, Powered by Technology™, sets an even more ambitious course for our university — a course that will extend and amplify our positive impact on our students and the world. You can learn more and read the plan in its entirety at rise.stevens.edu/strategic-plan

I am also so pleased to acknowledge the appointments of four university leaders, following rigorous national searches and significant input from the Stevens community. Dr. Sara Klein officially began her tenure as vice president for Student Affairs on July 25; Dr. Cindy Chin ’05 M.S. ’05 marked her first day as vice president for Enrollment Management on August 29; and Ms. Sheraine Gilliam joined Stevens as vice president for Human Resources and chief human resources officer on September 6. In addition, we welcome Dr. Edmund “Ed” Synakowski as vice provost for Research and Innovation on November 16. I encourage you all to get to know these leaders and to offer them your full support to achieve Stevens’ ambitious goals.

Finally, as the torch is passed in the Stevens Alumni Association (SAA), I extend my deepest gratitude to Victoria Velasco ’04 for her selfless dedication over the past five years as president and to offer John R. Dearborn ’79 M.Eng. ’81 my full support as he assumes the presidency of the SAA. Our university and all our alumni are truly enriched through your service and leadership. With so much to look forward to, I remain humbled by the generous and supportive community that makes achieving our dreams not only possible, but inevitable.

Per aspera ad astra,
Nariman Farvardin
President, Stevens Institute of Technology
[email protected]
201-216-5213