As the first semester of my final year as an undergrad comes to an end, I must reflect on how thankful I am to the LMU community for nurturing me over the last three years. I came to LMU knowing just a handful of people, and of them, I had only spoken to one in person before moving to Los Angeles. In that first year, I felt so alone; often, I did not think there was a place for me at LMU. I wish that I could go back in time and let my scared, first-year-self know that everything was going to be okay. I’d also tell them to start paying more attention in their pre-calc class because, trust me… it all WILL be on the final.
There are no words for how thankful I am for giving LMU a second chance and getting involved in different clubs and organizations on campus. This is where I found my people. People who shared my values, like community service. Through these involvements, I discovered that LMU was a place where I belonged, and I take any chance I can to make sure other students feel they belonged as well. All these experiences have led to where I am now, writing to you as the undergraduate student body president.
I am even more thankful that I will be able to spend my final year in community with my fellow Lions on the bluff. It has been a privilege to reconnect with friends I had not seen since before March 2020 and to connect with some new faces from the classes of 2024 and 2025. This simple act of having a face-to-face conversation with the people that I love makes me abundantly grateful this Thanksgiving. Simply put, I am thankful for the stability this semester has offered after months of remote learning, numerous residential moves and uncertainties, and everything else the last year and a half has presented us with.
This semester has been a challenge for the Associated Students of Loyola Marymount University (ASLMU), LMU’s student government, which is charged with empowering the voice of the students and actively promoting a vibrant campus life. We have been tasked with helping reimagine the potential of our university after our triumphant return. Our team has worked tirelessly to listen to student voices and balance the difficulties of our return with the celebration of being together again. Ultimately, I am grateful to the community that has stayed resilient and helped each other through. I am, and always will be, proud and thankful to be an LMU Lion.
Out of an abundance of caution, I have chosen not to travel home this Thanksgiving, but I am grateful to have a campus and community like LMU to spend time on and with this holiday weekend. Whether you are visiting family or remaining close to home, I wish you all a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.
— Brion Dennis ’22, ASLMU President
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