President’s Thanksgiving message

Dear members of the FIU family:

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, I am reminded that our university community has much for which to be thankful: students who are thoroughly, joyfully original; creative, committed faculty and staff; alumni and friends who are dedicated to FIU’s continued rise; and a sense of urgency that infuses our local and global engagement.

All of us have been affected by the continued challenges of a depressed economy and a public education system that is under-funded and overwhelmed. All of us have had to adjust to this changing dynamic. Yet the conversations I’ve had with others since becoming president are punctuated by an unyielding spirit of optimism that makes me hopeful for the future.

I am honored to lead such an engaged university community. To the students whom we serve, thank you for inspiring us to do more. To the many individuals who contribute their time, knowledge and financial resources to FIU so that our students and community may prosper, thank you for reminding us that generosity comes in many forms. To the Panthers who are living a life of public service, including the men and women of our armed forces, thank you for working actively to make the world a better place. May you remain safe and out of harm’s way.

On a personal note, Rosalie and I are grateful to be back at FIU. This is our home, and there is no place we’d rather be. The warm welcome that has greeted us in neighborhoods across South Florida reminds me in the most compelling way why we love Miami and this community.

Rosalie and I wish each of you a Thanksgiving filled with joy and peace. May you reflect on the many blessings for which you can be thankful.