Dear Campus Community
As we begin 2025, we do so without one of the greatest social rights activists this country has known during the last century. Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. President and Nobel Peace Prize Winner died on December 29. Although his one-term presidency had its challenges, he spent the rest of his life helping others at home and abroad.
Whether it was efforts improving human rights, removing racial barriers, stopping civil wars, or working on agricultural developments, President Carter sought to make our country—and the world—a better place. When leaving the White House, he is famously quoted as saying “In a few days, I will lay down my official responsibilities in this office to take up once more the only title in our democracy superior to president: the title of citizen.”
With the inauguration of a new U.S. President only days away, I want to welcome you back to the spring semester and ask that you reflect on the essence of civic engagement, following not only in the footsteps of President Carter, but also creating your own path in making a difference to help others. Whether your candidate won the recent election or not, this is the time to get involved, find your passion, and pour your energy into those issues that matter to you
At Salem State, civic engagement is in our DNA. We offer many opportunities for community members to get involved, share their voice, cause change, and make the world better. Below are examples of upcoming ways to get involved:
Running for Office: How to Run a Campaign Workshop – Learn the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to work on an election campaign at any level or run for elected office.
Student Success Summit 2025 – Begin the semester off with a fresh start by learning new academic tips and tricks and ways to stay motivated until May.
35th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration – Join us for Salem State's 35th annual day of unity, celebration, and reflection in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Whatever your passion, we have so many opportunities for you to become and to stay involved this coming semester.
I wish you the absolute best for 2025,
John D. Keenan
President