Dear Orange Friends:
As I write this, many of our students, faculty, and staff are starting their Thanksgiving Break–which will be quickly followed by an intense rush of activities as we conclude classes and examinations before the end of the year. I hope that we can all stop and take time to be thankful. I hope that we all take this time to cherish family and friends, whether they be near or far.
There are a lot of things that merit thanks at this University. Indeed, there are too many to list in any email message, however long. Just in the last month, I have seen so many classes, lectures, competitions, performances, service activities, remembrances, debates, discussions, and kindnesses. I am grateful for all of it, which is what defines a true university.
I am especially grateful for all the people who work so hard to facilitate what happens on the campus and around the world. This includes faculty, students, alumni, and the community–but today I am particularly grateful for our staff.
I hope that, every day, each of us notices how hard our staff members work to help this community be at its best. I see so many staff members each day, and they are often quietly saving the day for a student or a visitor. In my office, three such heroes are soon retiring: Judy Bragg, Gretchen Goldstein, and Linda Pitonzo. I know these three professionals have helped so many of you, in big and little ways, over the years. They certainly have meant the world to me. They will be missed.
I also want to recognize the many good people who are retiring this fall. I am thankful for all those who dedicate their lives to this institution. They will be celebrated across campus in many ways but I want to acknowledge them for their service and for truly being Orange Friends. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Chancellor Kent Syverud