The pine tree branches outside my window are heavy with falling snow, and the wind feels cold even from the warmth of the house. Writing this column a few days ahead of its distribution, the holiday break has provided both solace and perspective as we prepare for the upcoming spring semester at Davis & Elkins College.
The calendar turns to a new year, often synonymous with fresh starts and resolutions. However, if I may borrow a sports analogy, for those of us in higher education, the pause at the end of the calendar year is less a brand-new game and more of a “halftime.” With the fall semester complete, this moment offers exactly what halftime is designed to provide.
Specifically, a coach and team use the precious minutes of halftime to (1) rest, (2) review the strengths and challenges of the first half, and (3) make the strategic and tactical adjustments necessary for success in the second half. As D&E’s “coach,” looking out over a snow-covered landscape, our task is the same.
First, we rest. The book of Genesis tells us that after completing the work of creation, God rested on the seventh day. This concept of Sabbath is central to our humanity and essential to both the quality and quantity of life. During this break, students, faculty, and staff experience Sabbath—returning refreshed, renewed, and energized for the opportunities ahead.
Next comes reflection. This time allows us to look back on the fall semester and ask what lessons we can carry forward to strengthen the work ahead. Every area of the College—academics, enrollment management, student life, business operations, athletics, alumni relations, and governance—takes time to review, assess, and learn.
Finally, halftime requires adjustment. To finish the game—the academic year—strong, we must ask thoughtful questions. How effectively are we implementing our newly approved strategic plan, Forward? How are our new academic programs progressing? Are we on track for the launching of our first master’s degree as well as additional undergraduate offerings next fall? Are there budget adjustments or spending priorities that require attention?
As we approach the finish line of our $25 million Creating Home Capital Campaign, are we clearly and compellingly communicating both the need and the opportunity? Within Senator Nation athletics, are our efforts to strengthen a positive and supportive culture succeeding, and are our student-athletes experiencing exactly what we intend—both on and off the field? Meanwhile, as our physical plant continues to improve, excitement builds for the completion of the renovation of Gribble Residence Hall this spring and the beginning of Roxanna Booth Hall’s transformation in May.
A college is a living, dynamic community. For 122 years, Davis & Elkins College has strived to provide a high-quality, high-touch educational experience for students. Each December, this seasonal pause has been used intentionally—for Sabbath among our people and for thoughtful planning that keeps the institution on track. This year’s “halftime” continues that tradition, contributing to a stronger, healthier, and more resilient D&E.
For now, I am enjoying the pines and the falling snow. Soon enough, I will rejoin our rejuvenated students, faculty, and staff back on campus as the spring semester begins—ushering in exciting days of learning and transformation. We intend to finish this game with a win.
The journey continues…
Chris A. Wood
President
Davis & Elkins College
