I had the privilege of having lunch with my classmate Keith Nelson ’71 last week.  Keith was on campus to talk to some faculty and staff about interesting ideas to improve student retention, especially for Black and Hispanic students. 

Keith talked of his days at Wabash, which were my days as well.  I thought I had it tough – local C’ville kid from a poor family.  I didn’t know tough.

Keith and his classmates, and those who followed, knew tough.  And I have to believe their experience prepared them for that tough world they joined right after school.

One of the things those guys told each other was "We ARE going to make it" – and they did.  And we are a better college for it!

Photo: Keith Nelson ’71 pauses for thought as Prof. Tracey Salisbury looks on.