Dear EWU McNair Scholars,

Congratulations to all new, incoming scholars!  You are now part of a wonderful family and support system that will always be there to help and guide you to and through your post-baccalaureate goals.

And congratulations, also, to those of you who are graduating this year.  I wish you all the best in your post-baccalaureate endeavors and adventures.  Although you may be leaving behind the familiarity of your McNair scholar community, you are continuing your journey toward accomplishing a goal you have set for yourself.  For most of you, this means continuing your studies and research at the graduate level.  Know that you are up to the challenge you will face.  Although it may be difficult, you are no stranger to the hard work you need to reach your goal.  As EWU McNair alumni, be safe in the knowledge that you are never alone in your journey and I advise you to never hesitate to reach out – for encouragement, comfort, for advice – and always remember that, in the words of A.A. Milne, “you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.”

Best,

Cheryl Dykstra-Aiello, PhD

EWU McNair Scholar Alumnus 2012