Autumn may have arrived but at Bastyr University it feels more like spring, thanks to the growth, vibrancy and new beginnings we are experiencing. In addition to welcoming our students to a new academic year at our annual convocation ceremony, we also welcome a new campus in San Diego – full of students, faculty and staff. It is just one of the many exciting new developments happening on our campuses.
Less than two weeks after we held our grand opening celebration for Bastyr University California, we announced the opening of our new natural health teaching clinic. The Bastyr University Clinic opened on September 24, 2012, and immediately had a two-week waiting list for patients interested in visiting the best naturopathic doctors in the state. It is this kind of immediate impact that makes me confident this medical center will be a success.
For two consecutive Fridays and Saturdays in October, the woods next to Bastyr University’s Kenmore campus transform into one of the most frightful places in town. Our annual Haunted Trails event is sure to bring out thousands of people looking to be scared by ghosts, ghouls and goblins. The all-volunteer scare-fest, which also has trick-or-treating and activities for younger children, is a fundraiser for student study-abroad programs. Judging from the number of people who attended and the money raised the past few years, we expect this event to bring out the masses once again.
At our Seattle teaching clinic, Bastyr Center for Natural Health, this month marks the return of our popular Living Naturally series. At these free talks, which are open to the public, Bastyr experts pass along their knowledge on various topics of interest. The first talk on sugar and sugar alternatives is scheduled for October 27.
Finally it is time to consider nominating deserving alumni, students and friends for our annual Founders’ Awards. We seek individuals who have distinguished themselves through outstanding professional and personal achievement and loyal service to the University and the field of natural health science. All applications are due by October 15, and the Mission and Founders’ Day Gala in their honor takes place on November 3. We hope you can attend.
With all the wonderful and exciting events happening at Bastyr University, one need not look at a calendar to know what time of year it is. On our Seattle and San Diego campuses, it is perpetual spring.
In Health,
Bastyr University President
