Statements
Students, colleagues, fellow faculty members and friends…
The next few weeks are always an exciting time as we look forward to the winter holidays, but also a very busy and stressful time as we work to complete papers, projects, exams and grading for the fall semester. That stress is compounded this year by the ongoing hardships of COVID.
I have two hopes for each of us these final weeks of the semester.
My first hope is that we finish the semester physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy. This is the time to recommit to following UF Health guidelines for living, working, and learning in the midst of COVID, including always wearing a mask and taking opportunities to be tested frequently. I also wish for us all to be caring of others and understanding of the mental challenges and emotions associated with this time of year.
My second hope is that we finish the semester strong. We are all incredibly weary, but I know we are resilient, and we can complete what will be a remarkably successful year. I look forward to crossing the finish line of this semester with you.
Many congratulations to the 4,000 students graduating this month with their well-earned UF degrees. We are so proud of your accomplishments.
To our faculty and staff, on behalf of the university and all our students, thank you for this fall semester. Thank you for what you do and for how you do it. I know preparations are underway for the spring semester when more students will be on campus, there will be more in-person classes, more on-campus research, more community engagement, and as we begin the month of January, likely even more COVID.
I know the winter months and spring semester will be challenging, but I also know it will be a great semester filled with world-class teaching, research, clinical and extension excellence, and life-changing mentoring and advising.
Again, I look forward to finishing this fall semester strong with all of you. Thank you.