Hello, Alfred University Family and Friends! 

 As the first ever Assistant Vice President for Student Success at Alfred University, my role was created to lead efforts to enhance student success with a focus on academic and personal development and student well-being. My favorite part about this role is that I get to work with Alfred University students, staff, and faculty to make sure that we communicate effectively to provide a rich experience at Alfred University. 

When I first arrived on the Alfred University campus, aside from its natural beauty, the first thing that really caught my eye was the large purple structure by the Powell Campus Center that reads “FIAT LUX!,” which translates to “Let there be light.” You know what I’m talking about if you have been on this campus. When I first saw it, they were just big purple letters, but what I noticed in my first month at Alfred University, is that I look for the “FIAT LUX!” structure to start my day. It serves as a reminder to me that the day has begun, and it is “go time.” 

My very first week at Alfred, I was invited to be a part of Mentorship Day. I am working on completing my doctorate, with a focus on student persistence, which refers to a student staying enrolled and continuing their academic journey from one semester to the other. Mentoring is consistently stressedas a best practice regarding student persistence. On Mentorship Day at Alfred University, it was refreshing to see alumni come back and tell current students about their experiences post-graduation. It was exciting to see this institution recognized and then committed to presenting a mentoring initiative to our students. Even more exciting, over 400 students signed up for the event! 

In closing, I loved my experience at my alma mater. I felt safe there and met lifelong friends. It introduced me to the world of higher education and student success. The week I interviewed for my role at Alfred University, a special member from my alma mater passed away. His impact on the community was immense and special and he loved his community tremendously and he was loved right back. He lived in a beautiful community that was often used as a retreat for many members of that community. I utilized that community often as a student and staff member.  

There was a song named “There Is a Light” by Cyprian Consiglio that was often played at the chapel of this community. The main part of the chorus says, “There is a light that can overcome the darkness.” The song is special to me and countless others. It reminds me to keep moving in all aspects of life. Where I am going with this story, is that the “FIAT LUX!” and the “There Is a Light” song are both reminders to our communities to move forward, be warm, and to be a beacon of light. As for the connection, when I learned what “FIAT LUX!” meant, I simply smiled and knew I was where I needed to be. I hope that you and your loved ones let Alfred University become a beacon of light too. 

FIAT LUX!, 

Gabe Iturbides 

AVP for Student Success