Robertson Program still strong

Recent Chronicle articles have painted a less than positive picture of a floundering Robertson Scholars Program. There is no denying that the Robertson Scholars Program is in a moment of transition amidst leadership changes and staff turnover. However, the scholar community remains as strong and vibrant as I have seen it during my three years as a Robertson scholar.

At its core, the Robertson Program is about bringing together a diverse group of people interested in leading with integrity, while contributing to the collective good in some way. Robertson scholars learn from, grow with and are challenged by one another and the program. The Robertson scholars are the foundation of this program. Recent changes have created headlines and are certainly something scholars are thinking about. However, throughout changes in program leadership and staff, scholars have continued to be engaged with the program and one another in thoughtful and encouraging ways.

Change and opportunity are often closely linked. I believe it is important for the Robertson community to respond proactively to the current changes, working to help our young program to continue to evolve and improve. I am confident that the Robertson scholars will rise to meet this challenge.

Victoria Wilmarth, Trinity ’13

President, Robertson Scholars Community Coordinating Committee