June 2008

I gave the following baccalaureate address on May 24. The reactions have been mixed: Many thought the topic was inappropriate for the occasion and said they were offended; others thought it was about time the issue of alcohol use was raised and they believed the core message—that graduating seniors should think about the standards of behavior of the communities they will be joining as they leave college, and the importance of taking an active role in building those communities—was an important one to convey at any college gathering. I certainly did not intend to offend anyone, and I apologize to those I did.

— RDL

• Baccalaureate Address, May 24, 2008

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

With sadness, I write to inform you that the Middlebury Police Department, assisted by the Vermont State Police, tonight has recovered the body they believe to be Nicholas Garza.

I have shared my deepest sympathies with Nick’s mother Natalie, and let her know that the thoughts and prayers of the entire Middlebury community are with her, the Garza family, and with Nick’s many friends.

I want to express thanks to the police and to the search teams who have worked so tirelessly over the last few months.

Details regarding a gathering in remembrance of Nick will follow soon.

May the unity that comes from the terrible sadness we all feel at this time be a source of comfort and strength for the Garza family.

Ronald D. Liebowitz
President
Middlebury College