I had a great time this evening attending the Scholar Athlete Reception, at which the students with the highest GPAs in each sport were recognized along with all students in all sports with high GPAs. Each of these accomplished students spoke appreciatively about their time at Rice and graciously recognized their favorite professors and mentors. One student told of how typical it is of Rice that her coach always congratulated her on her excellent grades. And another student similarly told of how her professors would take the time to ask how her competitions were going. These students truly exemplify how Rice students so often exceed even our highest aspirations for them.
Professor Rob Griffin, Master of Hanszen College and Faculty Athletic Representative, spoke movingly about how his children have been embraced and supported by some of the athletes recognized during the ceremony. He said that his hope for his children is not just that they become excellent students and excellent athletes but that they become Rice student athletes. It is a great aspiration! The event was a great chance to remember how fortunate I am (and we all are) to be at Rice in the company of outstanding students and dedicated faculty teachers.