Colleagues,
We are nearing the end of what has been one of the most challenging years in memory. As we do, I want to thank you all for the extraordinary work you have done this past year on behalf of our students and the entire PSU community.
As individuals and as a university, we have faced a pandemic that is unprecedented in our lifetimes, economic downturns resulting from our collective efforts to keep as many people safe from the virus as we can until a vaccine is widely available, movements around the country and here in Portland to call us to account on the issue of racial justice and equity, a tension-filled national election, and wildfires throughout our state. Throughout, I have been in awe of how the PSU community has come together to prioritize our students' ability to continue their education. Simultaneously, we have also prioritized how we care for all members of our community, including the staff and faculty at PSU and their families. I can't tell you how much it has meant to me personally and institutionally to see the compassion, care, and commitment to service that has defined PSU's response to these disruptive events. I am humbled by all of you and feel incredibly grateful for your commitment every day.
I hope that all of you will find time for restful and restorative moments during the upcoming holidays. Most keenly, I hope that you all remain healthy and safe. Though the reasons that made this year so disruptive will not entirely disappear, the new year provides reasons for hope for us all. My dearest hope is that all of you have a wonderful and joyful holiday. I feel blessed to be able to work with all of you, and I look forward to seeing all of you in person in the new year!
Warmly,
Susan Jeffords
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Portland State University
