April has arrived and we are beginning to see the signs of spring and a final push to the end of the semester and academic year. There are many chances to see and hear the works of our students and faculty, and as dean, I am proud of their many accomplishments. I am once again proud that we have a record 94 graduates that will receive degrees on May 9. Many of them will be going forward to graduate schools, careers, or further study. I am also proud of the number of students who have chosen IU South Bend and the Ernestine M. Raclin School of the Arts as their new home of study for the 2017-18 academic year.

Spring is a time of renewal and reflection. This past year, we have had a chance to reflect on our 25 years of providing quality arts education and programming for our immediate city, region, and state. We continue to take our banner to the far reaches of the world through the summer study grants provided by the IU South Bend Arts Foundation Board. Over the past six years, more than 30 students have taken advantage of the monies raised by this organization to help fund summer travel for our students. Most schools do not do this, but this is IU South Bend and the Raclin School of the Arts and we do things in a different way. We try to give our students unique opportunities that make them not only better artists but better citizens of the world. The next round of grants will be awarded very soon and students will undertake extraordinary adventures to not only increase their knowledge but to perhaps even change the world.

Enjoy the fragrances and sights of spring. Renew your spirit by coming to our campus and seeing and hearing the work of the Raclin School of the Arts. Help close out our 25th anniversary celebration as we prepare for the next 25 years of serving our community, state, and the world. Be inspired as we aspire to be the best!