Let’s make the most of a new year together
Central Michigan University President Neil MacKinnon raises a finger while he explains all of the joys on campus that he has experienced during his time as president in the Plachta Auditorium, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. MacKinnon says he and his wife eat at Dine & Connect about three times a week and he also works out at the Student Activity Center on campus. (CMLife | Alivia Cranick)
By Neil MacKinnon
Central Michigan University President
The excitement is building as we head toward the start of a new academic year at Central Michigan University, and there is so much to be excited about.
Like most of life, you’ll get out of your college experience what you’re willing to put into it. To make the most of your time at CMU, you should take full advantage of everything life at Central has to offer.
Your professors and instructors can be so much more than simply teachers – they can be mentors and the first members of your professional networks. Make sure to actively participate in class discussions, ask questions and take advantage of office hours. Get to know your faculty members and let them get to know you. I’ll be giving some guest lectures this fall so you may even see me in your class!
Your classmates will be one of the most amazing things about your campus experience. Get to know them in class and consider forming study groups. At CMU, we’re a community that lifts each other up, and that means helping each other succeed in class, too!
Your time in the classroom and in labs is fundamental, of course, but your education extends far beyond those walls. I strongly encourage you to participate in the many events planned for the months ahead, and to explore our many registered student organizations. There’s a community for every interest, whether you’re passionate about gaming, environmental causes, theater or volunteering. Joining a student organization is one of the best ways to build lasting friendships, develop leadership skills and create memories that will last a lifetime.
CMU puts great emphasis on ensuring you get a hands-on education that prepares you for great careers, and you don’t need to take my word on that. Carnegie has classified CMU as the best “Opportunity University” in Michigan. To earn the designation, we demonstrated tremendous access to a quality education and that our graduates earn competitive wages in their careers.
This summer, we invested in several positive changes on campus. Our Student Food Pantry relocated to Robinson Hall. Our team at University Recreation made significant upgrades to the weight training and fitness equipment at the Student Activity Center. The transformation of Merrill Dining Hall continues, with CMU’s most popular Grab n’ Go food service location opening on August 25. And all-new initiatives, funded by Go Grants, have begun and are gaining momentum in progress toward meeting the goals of our strategic plan.
We know there’s much more that goes into student success, and we have invested in dedicated resources to ensure you have access to what you need. For those who need academic assistance, the Office of Student Success offers incredible resources, from tutoring to study skills workshops. Student mental health and well-being are a top priority, and the CMU Counseling Center is ready to help with any challenges students may encounter.
For me, this year holds a special significance. This is my first chance to kick off a new academic year as CMU president, and my family (including First Lady Leanne and First Dog Bentley) and I are tremendously proud to be part of this incredible community. The energy of our students is what really makes CMU a vibrant and inspiring place.
One thing I’ve learned is that your college years fly by incredibly fast. Let’s make this year one to remember. From the first day of class to graduation day, let’s be grateful for our time together and make every moment count.
Welcome to another great year at CMU, and FIRE UP CHIPS!
