William & Mary President Katherine A. Rowe sent the following message to the campus community on Aug. 27, 2025. – Ed.
Dear Students, Faculty & Staff,
I hope this note finds you in high spirits as you head to classes and work. Please join us at the Wren at 7:15 p.m. this evening for Convocation. Unfazed by the Wrenovation scaffolding, we will open William & Mary’s 333rd year – with lights, banners, flair, and recognitions for individuals who have served our broader community with distinction.
This academic year brings many firsts on campus. Classes are officially in session for the School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics. We welcome the first cohort in our undergraduate program at the Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences & VIMS. The Muscarelle Museum is premiering an exhibit curated by National Geographic photographer Ami Vitale as part of the Year of the Environment. In 2026, we will host millions of visitors for the U.S. Quarter Millennium.
Through the bustle of fall festivities, I hope you will take time to share warm thanks with colleagues for the contributions of everyone in our community. Each of us has a responsibility to cultivate this community of learning, which flourishes with every new person we welcome.
See you at the Wren!
– Katherine