• Seton Hall University
• Office of the President

Dear Community,

Both of my mom’s parents were born in Ireland and they immigrated to America in the first half of the last century. There is a phrase in Irish that often comes to mind when I think of them:

“Well begun is half done.”

As tomorrow marks the start of a new academic year, please allow me to share this expression and the accompanying sentiments with all of you.

How we enter into a new situation has a great impact on how we experience it, and ultimately how it turns out.  I would like to invite each of us to enter this new academic year with hope and expectation, with confidence and encouragement.

This is a unique and hopeful moment in our lives and in the history of Seton Hall. God has intentionally called us to be together. As we begin the year, I truly believe that God wants each of us here at this time, both individually and as a community.

Less than two months ago, I began my service as University President. And as president, I promise I will do my best to advance Seton Hall’s identity as a community of welcome, one in which people are respected and encouraged to share their gifts.

This has been a characteristic of the Seton Hall experience since its inception and proceeds from our Catholic faith, which instructs us that the human person is made in God’s image and likeness. In this way, we understand there is great value to developing the entire person — in mind, body and spirit — so that he or she can contribute to society as God would have it.

Ultimately, we are called to embrace the truth that life isn’t about gaining and getting, but rather about giving, with Jesus Christ as the perfect example.

All of you will remain in my prayers for a safe, successful and enriching year — one in which you realize ever more fully the loving presence of God in your lives.  And remember, “Well begun is half done.” God bless you.

Yours truly in the Lord Jesus,

Monsignor Reilly