In the spirit of innovation, as well as excellence, Forward-Focused was unveiled as a new tradition. Replacing our annual fall State of the University address, this special event provides a unique platform to reflect on our past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future. During this hour-long event, we take the unique opportunity to pay tribute to outstanding Monarchs through the Monarch Pillar of Innovation and Excellence Award, which is driven by a peer nomination process for exemplary contributions and profound impact on our campus, in our community, and beyond!
An Inaugural Event to Engage, Inspire, and Support
The inaugural Forward-Focused event was held on Thursday, February 13, 2025 in Chartway Arena’s Big Blue Room during activity hour from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. This event included attendance from Leadership Council members, shared governance leaders, students, faculty, and staff. With attendance including nearly 1,000 Monarchs, it was a moment where Monarch passion and pride were on display and shined brightly for a dynamic presentation, engaging discussion, and awards presentation to three deserving Monarchs.
Celebrating Monarch Innovation and Excellence
An Annual Event to Reflect, Celebrate, and Plan
Moving forward, Forward-Focused will be an annual event held each spring. Requests for audience questions and award nominations will be sought beginning at the first of the year with an in-person campus event to be held during the spring semester. A date for the annual event will be released before the end of the preceding calendar year.
Forward-Focused 2025
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. presenting Forward-Focused 2025 in the Big Blue Room at Chartway Arena.
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. presenting Forward-Focused 2025 in the Big Blue Room at Chartway Arena to 1,000 Monarchs in attendance.
Cathy Lewis, the host of Forward-Focused 2025, introducing the Q&A session with President Hemphill.
Forward-Focused 2025 Q&A Session featuring host Cathy Lewis and President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
The winners of the 2025 Annual Monarch Pillar of Innovation and Excellence Award. This new annual award celebration spotlights the unwavering dedication, exceptional achievements, and innovative spirit that propel Old à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã University forward.
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. presenting Forward-Focused 2025 in the Big Blue Room at Chartway Arena.
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. presenting Forward-Focused 2025 in the Big Blue Room at Chartway Arena to 1,000 Monarchs in attendance.
Cathy Lewis, the host of Forward-Focused 2025, introducing the Q&A session with President Hemphill.
Forward-Focused 2025 Q&A Session featuring host Cathy Lewis and President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
The winners of the 2025 Annual Monarch Pillar of Innovation and Excellence Award. This new annual award celebration spotlights the unwavering dedication, exceptional achievements, and innovative spirit that propel Old à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã University forward.