As the weather warms and another academic year draws to a close, my heart is filled with gratitude for the remarkable ways the Lord is at work in and through Taylor. This spring's Commencement marks the end of my fourth year as president and with it, a meaningful milestone. The graduating class of 2025 is special to our family, for we have journeyed together during the Lindsays’ first four years at Taylor. It has been such a joy to walk this road together.
To the class of 2025, thank you. Thank you for your faithfulness, your leadership, and your flexibility. You have navigated change with grace, and you have poured yourselves into the lives of others in ways that have left a lasting legacy on this campus. As you depart from Taylor, I trust you do so knowing how deeply proud we are of you, as well as how confident we are in the good work God will continue to do through your lives. We truly hope you are each sent and equipped to administer Christ’s redemptive love, grace, and truth to a world in need.
At the same time, as we look around campus, it is clear that God is intentionally blessing Taylor University. Tangible signs of growth surround us, including new academic programs, record enrollment, and increasing momentum behind campus initiatives. Even more significant than these is the unmistakable spiritual movement underway. Lives are being transformed by Jesus, and the world is taking notice. The desire to be part of what God is doing here is growing, and that is both a great joy and a serious calling.
Increased enrollment leads to more energy, more diversity of experience, and more opportunities to live out our mission. However, it also brings other certain realities like busier dining spaces, fuller residence halls, and occasional inconveniences as we adjust to meet new demands. While these growing pains are real, they are also palpable signs of God’s favor. And, how we respond to such challenges reveals a lot about who we are and who we are becoming.
Again and again, Scripture reminds us that Christian community is not marked by comfort, but by commitment. The Apostle Paul calls the Ephesians to “bear with one another in love” and to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Such a call is as timely now as ever. This season invites us to practice selflessness and to consider how we can create space for others, especially those who are just beginning their Taylor journey. It also calls us to patience, flexibility, and generosity that puts others’ needs before our own. Some of you have already answered this call in meaningful ways, whether by adjusting your housing plans, mentoring younger students, or simply welcoming interruptions with grace. Thank you. Even as we work through the logistics of the growth we are experiencing, there is a firm commitment to protect what makes Taylor, Taylor.
So, as we depart from campus this summer, I want to leave you with two encouragements. First, keep serving one another. The undergraduate years develop your character in meaningful ways, and expressions of humility now will help shape the future of your life and this place for years to come. Second, rest well. Whether you are heading into a job, an internship, more school, or simply a slower pace, I urge you to take time to reflect on God’s goodness to you this year. Stay rooted in Him no matter where this summer takes you.
I am so grateful for each and every one of you. Your presence, prayers, and participation in Taylor’s mission are what make this place flourish. In the days ahead, we grow not just in number, but in Christlikeness and love for one another.
To all, may you have a safe and restorative summer, and to the class of 2025, well done.
President Lindsay
