March 22, 2018
Editor's Note: On March 29, 2018, Dr. Steven Leath will be installed as the 19th president of Auburn University. Be a part of Auburn history and witness Dr. Leath as he shares an inspiring, innovative and transformative vision for Auburn's future. What follows is one in a series of 12 stories that highlight members of the Auburn family who embody these ideals. As you will see, Auburn is on the move. To learn more about the installation of President Leath, please visit www.auburn.edu/auburninspires
How could I not go?
Being a student-athlete at Auburn University required discipline, time management, hard work, and focus. I think these are the building blocks for success in all of life. I was not particularly the smartest student or most gifted gymnast, but I was determined to work hard and do my best in whatever I engaged in.
With time and patience, success came, but it was not without struggle, injuries, and heartache at times. Perseverance in what I loved is what brought about lasting change.
I spent eight years as a veterinarian in Birmingham before moving to Africa in 2015, where I use my veterinary skills to cultivate animal husbandry skills and business opportunities for Ugandan students. I also have summer interns and apprentices. I have the opportunity to train and inspire the next generation of leaders.
I still follow the Auburn's gymnastics program from afar. I am proud the program continues to grow and improve each year. Jeff Graba has done a wonderful job. To Auburn's gymnasts who seek to balance athletics and academics with their spirituality, I can offer advice from my journey.
I believe if you are putting your spiritual lives first, everything else will fall into place. The first verse I ever memorized was Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight".
Under President Leath's vision, Auburn will transform lives by expanding its research and development programs to address some of society's most challenging problems with a special emphasis in the health sciences, improved sustainable resources, advanced manufacturing and cyber security.
Auburn University is on the move.