Welcome back to La Grande, students, faculty and staff of Eastern Oregon University.

Classes start today at EOU, and a buzz of excitement crosses the campus from one end to the other. Area residents who haven't toured the campus lately are in for a treat. Start your tour at the $33.5 million science center, which has added about 67,000 square feet to the science complex. Then check out the renovations of Ackerman Hall and Quinn Coliseum. Next look at the improvements to Community Stadium.

Departing President Philip Creighton did an excellent job building bridges between the campus and the community. Besides the physical improvements, Creighton had a goal of boosting enrollment. And it worked. Enrollment jumped about 16 percent last year, and had increased about 6 percent the previous three years.

Creighton also had a hand in increasing the EOU Foundation funds by 150 percent. What's more, new degree programs for computer science/multi-media, gender studies, biochemistry, media arts and a master's of business administration were added.

Creighton also got involved in many community-building organizations, and made sure to put a priority on local purchases. We are certain the new president to be hired soon will follow suit and continue to bring the college and the community together.

EOU's Homecoming Parade Oct. 11, being revived after a several year hiatus, is an example of the new heightened spirit on campus. EOU students, grads and others should turn out and make this event a long-term success.

EOU has lots of graduates in our community, and its presence here brings La Grande a world flavor, and educational and cultural opportunities that enrich our lives.