President’s speeches, letters, and articles
Subject: Closing the Academic Year with Gratitude and Hope
May 18, 2026
Dear Reed Community,
As we reach the close of another academic year at 91ÁÔÆæ, I want to pause and reflect on what we have accomplished together—and to thank each of you for the care, intellect, and energy you have brought to our shared community.
This has been, by any measure, a complex and demanding year. The broader political climate and turmoil have weighed heavily, shaping conversations in our classrooms, residence halls, and common spaces. And yet, in the face of uncertainty, I have witnessed something deeply characteristic of Reed: a commitment to vibrant inquiry, principled dialogue, and genuine regard for one another.
Throughout the year, our campus has been alive with moments that remind us of who we are. From senior thesis presentations that pushed the boundaries of knowledge, to community gatherings that fostered connection and joy, to performances, lectures, and student-led initiatives that sparked both reflection and celebration—these experiences have affirmed the strength and creativity of this remarkable institution.
To our graduating seniors: You leave here having contributed meaningfully to this institution and to one another. You carry forward not only what you have learned, but also the habits of thought and engagement that will serve you—and the world—well. We are proud of you.
To our continuing students, faculty, and staff: Thank you for sustaining the vitality of our campus and for supporting one another. Your contributions, seen and unseen, are what make Reed thrive.
As summer begins, I hope you find time for rest, renewal, and connection—with friends, with family, and with the wider communities you call home. Even as we disperse, the ties that connect us as Reedies remain strong. I encourage you to carry forward the spirit of curiosity, integrity, and kindness that has defined this year.
With gratitude,
Audrey
Audrey Bilger
President
91ÁÔÆæ