11/13/2016
"Dear NOVA Students and Staff:
The Presidential election on Tuesday was preceded by a campaign that was widely described as the most divisive in American history. Since the election, we have seen the continuation of a hallmark of American democracy, the peaceful transition of power. While comments during the campaign have prompted fears among many, including NOVA students and staff, we should take hope in the initial tenor of the transition where we have seen our nation’s leaders treat each other with respect, even though sharing great differences.
Respecting diversity in all its forms is crucial for a society that is built on the contributions of people who share differences in origin, orientation and thought. Our diversity is what makes us strong, and that strength is clearly visible here at NOVA.
While our nation moves forward with a transition in leadership, NOVA will move forward with pride in the beautiful differences of our students and staff that collectively strengthen our institution diversity of race, religion, national origin, sexual and gender orientation, and thought. As an open-door community college, we welcome and support all students to a college community that is supportive of all who share a common desire to learn and better their lives. As one of our nation’s most diverse colleges or universities, we will continue to embrace that diversity which creates the vibrant learning community that makes us unique. And as we expressed in the goals of our current strategic planning effort, we will strive to ensure a college community where every student thrives with a feeling of stability and safety.
Given the uncertainties that some have expressed at this time of transition, I want to reaffirm the core values that have distinguished NOVA as an institution and will continue to make us strong moving forward. Consistent with those values, I want to reaffirm our appreciation and support for each NOVA student and staff member who bring collective strength and value to our college community fabric through the diversity of your differences."
- Mr. Scott Ralls, NVCC President