Guilford College President Jean Bordewich told students Tuesday that they are entering a changing world but in the same breath reassured them that Guilford’s liberal arts education – and the community that sustains it – will prepare them to meet that uncertain future with purpose.

Jean, who last week received a two-year appointment as Guilford’s president, urged students attending Opening Convocation along with faculty and staff members to see their education not just as preparation for a career, but as a foundation for shaping the future.

“We are living in fascinating – and perilous – times,” she said. “Old systems are falling away. Technology continually accelerates change. The world is both highly connected and deeply fractured. Democratic government and global capitalism are under assault. It’s hard to see what the future holds.”

But Jean said Guilford students have a distinct advantage over their peers elsewhere. “Guilford and its practical, liberal arts education will enable you to step confidently into this as-yet-unknown world and help shape it,” she said. “And this community that you will increasingly be part of will sustain you, long after you have graduated.”

Jean’s message framed the annual Convocation, held in Ragan-Brown Field House to welcome the Class of 2029 and returning students and mark the official start of the academic year, which began Wednesday.

Nadeem Nasereddin ’27, President of Guilford’s Student Body Association, earlier this week flew 18 hours from his home in Palestine to Greensboro. He reminded returning students and informed first years that Guilford’s community is only as strong as each student’s input. 

“This campus is small, but that’s part of the magic,” said Nadeem, a Business Administration major. “People see you. People know you. That means your impact matters. Your energy matters. What you bring into this space matters – your humor, your kindness, it all counts.”

Wess Daniels, William R. Rogers Director of Friends Center and Quaker Studies, likened the College’s Convocation to a threshold moment in students’ lives.

“As with all thresholds, when you cross from one space into another, things change,” he said. “Schoolwork will be harder. Time management will be harder. But there will also be things that are better and more fun — the independence you have, the excitement to learn and explore the world before you with amazing faculty and staff.”

Interim Provost Kami Rowan invited students to approach that challenge with intention. “I invite you to not just be here, but to figure out how, why, when, and who to be here,” Kami said. “Show up present – in your being and in your learning.”