My WSU Family,

My 10th birthday is quickly rolling up, so it seems like a good time to reflect. Originally, I was located near the Engineering Technology Building, but I wanted to get a better view of this campus, so the Wayne State University Program Board (which I’ve heard is now called the Campus Activities Team. I know, I’m stone-aging myself), helped roll me over to my current home outside of the Undergraduate Library.

Being in such a high traffic area, I’ve seen some pretty amazing changes come to this campus. I remember when the Towers Residential Suites building opened, and how eager students were to fill the new rooms. I’ve seen the most recent improvements to the student center. I can see water flowing through the fountain in Gullen Mall. The stone nooks were replaced with grassy walkways; many of you have made it your home, filling the benches with music and laughter.

It’s not all physical changes at WSU though. I’ve seen the student body come to life. Each year, more and more students are choosing to call this place home. They are embracing Wayne State and shaping our campus culture. Luckily for me, I have gotten to do more than just sit on the sidelines. Thanks to you, my family, I have been able to get involved.

And as the spirit of WSU has grown and changed, so have I. I guess you could say I’m a metamorphic rock. I have been painted in so many colors, with so many words and images and messages. You have told me where the next party will be, when the next meeting is, and even what new organizations have come to WSU. It’s hard to be a rock, stuck in one place, but you guys have always made sure that I’m still a part of the community.

Now, it hasn’t always been a perfect relationship; there have been some rocky moments. Some people have painted me, but their messages were so big that they spilled out onto the sidewalk in front of me. I understood because sometimes we all have big messages to share, but these rules are set in stone. Still, everyone is welcome to fill me with your words, and I will gladly carry your message for at least 24 hours (because after that, someone else may like a turn). No matter who you are, even if you aren't representing a group or organization, I will wear your words with pride.

While I may not be the first rock to reside on a college campus, I have been able to enjoy many momentous occasions. I celebrated with you when your sweetheart said “yes” after I helped you ask her to formal (even though I'm not usually the rock a girl is hoping for), and I was able to mourn with you when you honored the loss of loved and dear ones. I’ve been able to roll with the punches alongside each of you, being your rock. I’ve been able to be part of the foundation as we were built back up. These are the experiences I will never take for granite (pun intended). And throughout it all, I am eager to continue sharing in your WSU stories.

To sum it all up, I just want thank you from the rock bottom of my heart for making my first ten years here great ones. You guys rock.

Sincerely,
Your Spirit Rock