President Sherry Turner Holds Listening Sessions, Looks to the Future

In seven weeks on the job, President Sherry Turner has already conducted at least 100 conversations with various stakeholders.

"One of the questions I’ve been asked the most is, “What is my vision for HIU?” I always share my philosophy that it is important that we create a shared vision for HIU. Everyone will join in the effort to realize our vision, and I believe that everyone has the responsibility to help contribute to that vision. I have been doing a lot of listening. I’ve now had approximately 100 conversations and have been able to learn a lot about why people believe HIU is such a special place and why our mission sets us apart." 

A campus-wide retreat on Aug. 25 was her first official introduction to the community.

"I am eager to share with everyone the feedback I have received from them," she said. "I am inviting everyone to share with me in identifying our most immediate priorities."

Last week, President Turner met the 10 students in this year's cohort for the MA in International Peacebuilding program during an orientation program on cultural differences.

"Peacebuilding is sacred work. It requires humility, understanding, and a great deal of courage," she said, adding that "Hartford has many spiritual and religious communities and I am eager to spend time getting to know them all."

Dr. Turner has moved into a house on campus and looks forward to learning more about the Greater Hartford region. 

"HIU has a beautiful campus and I am fortunate to be able to live here," she said. "Most people think that our property consists just of buildings and a lawn, but there is much more. In addition to the iconic building by Richard Meier, our campus consists of 7 acres of woods, and the Park River winds along our border. I love that there is a labyrinth just behind my home. Being a president can be demanding, but the woods, the river, and the labyrinth will be good reminders of how important it is to nourish and replenish my soul."

The woods and Park River watershed play an important role in HIU's Eco-Spirituality work, including a graduate certificate in Eco-Spirituality and multiple pathways through each of our degrees that focus on that specialty.