Office of the President

Salem Academy and College

601 South Church Street

Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27101

Dear Salem Community,

As the United States moves towards January 20, the date on which presidential inaugurations occur, we approach a core moment in American democracy. Across many generations, January 20th has been marked by firsts—the first Catholic president, the first African American president, and now, in the vice-presidential role, the country—and the world—will watch as the first woman, the first African American, and the first person of South Asian descent is inaugurated.

She is the first, and we honor that as we honor roles across the three branches of government. As we do so we join together to recognize our hope that she will not be the last.

And, given the events of the past few weeks, we join together as well to recognize the value of our democracy and the importance of our safety as we move forward. As a campus, we are keeping our eye on the range of risk—and ask you to join us in being safe, staying vigilant, and in joining together as one Salem community in our resolve to educate and affirm the coming generations of girls and women to become transformative leaders.

Cordially,

Susan Henking
Interim President