UNH President James W. Dean Jr.
Dear Parents,
I hope you’re enjoying a great summer, and I want you to know how excited we are to welcome your student to UNH in a few short weeks.
As you may know, this is my first semester as a Wildcat. As the new president of UNH, it’s been a true pleasure to see how warm, friendly and helpful our community is, whether your student is a newcomer, like me, or a returning student preparing for advanced research, independent study and the transition to a great career.
We’re incredibly fortunate to be here at a time when UNH has never been stronger, or more full of promise. In fact, UNH’s remarkable record of student success was a major factor in my decision to move to Durham after 21 years at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where I served as executive vice chancellor and provost. Here are just a few examples of student success at UNH:
- UNH’s student graduation rate is well above the national average, and is the second highest among all 45 of New England’s public, four-year institutions.
- 93 percent of our recent graduates either land jobs, pursue advanced degrees or enter public service.
- More than 78 percent of our students complete at least one internship.
- Our Undergraduate Research Conference is the largest of its kind in the country, with nearly 2,000 undergraduates presenting. Encourage your student to take part!
- The Durham community is ranked among the safest university towns in the nation.
- With more than 250 student-run clubs and organizations, it’s easy for UNH students to get involved outside the classroom, make friends and engage in great, life-changing experiences. Encourage them to explore all the options at University Day on Sept. 12.
- Our entire UNH community is committed to building an even better UNH and creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive atmosphere for students, staff and faculty alike.
Our faculty and staff have been working hard throughout the summer to prepare for the fall semester and are ready to help your student succeed academically, grow personally and be part of our vibrant, welcoming Wildcat community. As a UNH parent, you are part of our Wildcat family as well, and I am sincerely grateful for your support, trust and pride in UNH.
Best wishes,
James W. Dean Jr.
President
