EDITORIAL

Albert Einstein wrote, “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” Forward momentum is necessary when riding a bicycle to keep it from falling over. Merriam-Webster defines momentum as strength or force gained by motion or by a series of events.

Several events in the 14^th century created a momentum that ultimately ushered in the Renaissance. In 1450, the invention of the Gutenberg press changed the world. Ideas began to spread much more quickly throughout Europe. In Florence, Italy, the Medici family served as patrons for a range of artists. The associated artistic and intellectual revolution that began in Florence quickly spread across Italy. Ultimately, this age of enlightenment spread to France and throughout Europe.

From the period of 1300 to 1600, Europe produced brilliant minds like Leonardo da Vinci, Descartes, Galileo, Copernicus, Hobbes, Chaucer, Dante, Machiavelli, Milton, Botticelli, Raphael, Michelangelo, Shakespeare, and many others. The momentum created by their collective thinking caused an explosive impact on philosophy, literature, art, science, and architecture. This cultural momentum would put an end to the Middle Ages, what some refer to as the Dark Ages, and launch the Renaissance.

On a much smaller scale, momentum is also transforming Weatherford College. We are one of only two community college districts in Texas to be authorized to offer five bachelor’s degree programs. We have a highly successful radio station, our own golf course, and beautiful new facilities. Students are succeeding in our academic, athletic, and arts programs at unprecedented levels. Philanthropy is through the roof. An astonishing 88 percent of our students now receive grants or scholarships!

With all of the amazing things that are happening at Weatherford College, it is hard to image what will come next. Let me assure you, the best is yet to come! Because now, we have momentum.

 

Tod Allen Farmer

President, Weatherford College