EDITOR’S NOTE: This story is featured in the Winter 2026 edition of The Tartan magazine. Read more from The Tartan at alma.edu/tartan.
It’s hard to believe it’s already been six months since I first wrote to you in these pages. What a joy it has been to truly experience life at Alma College — from my first Homecoming parade, where I proudly wore a kilt (and learned there’s definitely a “right” way to do that!), to the many moments that have filled my days with gratitude, laughter and purpose.
Since arriving in “Scotland, USA,” I’ve been on the move — meeting alumni on the road, enjoying spirited conversations in offices and coffee shops, and becoming something of a regular at a few local favorites like Main Cafe. Each stop has reminded me that Alma’s reach extends far beyond our campus.
Everywhere I go, I meet people who light up when they talk about the professors who inspired them, the classmates who became lifelong friends, and the lessons that shaped their character. Back on campus, I’ve visited with students and faculty in every major, and I continue to be deeply impressed by the quality of academic work taking place here. I’ve met with living-learning communities, fraternities and sororities who serve with such compassion, and I’ve joined in moments of reflection through Spiritual Life that remind me what a powerful force hope and purpose can be in our world.
Through all of these experiences, one word keeps returning to my mind: listening. Over these first months, I’ve tried to do a lot of it — listening to our students, faculty, staff and alumni about what makes Alma special, and how we can strengthen it for the future. These conversations are shaping the next iteration of our strategic plan, an update to the Evergreen initiative that will guide our shared work in the years ahead.
In this issue of The Tartan, you’ll find some wonderful examples of the stories that make Alma College unique. Our students in iGEM are showing what happens when creativity and collaboration meet science — proving that innovation flourishes when disciplines connect. Our Moot Court team continues to impress on the national stage, helping students master the art of critical thinking and civil discourse. And the Couch family reminds us that Alma’s legacy extends across generations, carried forward by the love and loyalty of those who call this place home.
I like to think of myself as Alma College’s storyteller — and each of these pieces tells a chapter of who we are: curious minds, servant hearts, and Scots committed to making a difference.
As we look ahead to commencement and my inauguration this spring, I find myself filled with optimism. Every generation of Scots adds a new thread to our college’s story — bright, strong and deeply woven with purpose. Together, we are ensuring that this tapestry continues to grow, reflecting all that is enduring and new about Alma College.
GO SCOTS!
— Joe