As I drove on to the Charleston Southern University campus early this morning, the sun was just starting to rise. But the most noticeable site were the full parking lots adjacent to the dorms.

Yes, Monday, January 9, 2012. A new year, a new semester and the opportunity for renewal. As an staff member at CSU, a new semester is really exciting. We see new faces, friendly faces and returning friends across campus. It also prompted me to reflect on the entire academic year.

Charleston Southern University is growing — fast. This past fall we broke ground on a new Christian Leadership Building and Athletic Center. The University was honored for learning (Best Christian College, record freshman enrollment), leading and serving (President’s Higher Education Honor Roll).

While those are all great recognitions and make our life easy in the PR department, the most exciting news came days before the beginning of the semester. Dr. Rick Brewer, Clark Carter, Jon Davis and Tam Odom led the charge during Grace Awakening, a three-day series of events to connect, pray and worship.

By the end of the weekend, before classes even started, more than 50 students were baptized. How many more were impacted? No idea. What we do know is Grace Awakening led a spiritual transformation on campus that continues today. CSU has never been in better spiritual health. So here comes the Spring 2012 semester and another opportunity to introduce and renew our commitment to learn, lead and serve.