Thank you for sustaining our UW Tacoma community

As we mark the end of autumn quarter, my first in this wonderful community, I want you to know how optimistic I am about the future of this institution.

I see and empathize with what many of you are going through. I also see your incredible strength. I see how we have all gained a greater understanding about each other and our needs. So much has changed over the past two years — we have moved from merely reacting to resilient flexibility.

You have heard me say before that “Huskies work in packs.” This goes for fighting COVID, but on a higher level it speaks to how we move forward together. I appreciate all you are doing to care for each other, for your loved ones, your students, your classmates and roommates, your colleagues – it is through this mutual network of support that we are getting through these times and building for our futures.

As we reach the end of the quarter, we have a precious few days to recharge, to prepare for a winter quarter in which the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 will play an as-yet-unknown role. If you are six months out from your initial COVID vaccines and haven’t yet received a booster, I urge you to do so. The health departments for King and Pierce Counties list vaccine locations. For faculty and staff, UW CareLink is hosting a webinar series on personal well-being and productivity in the new year. For students, this resource tracker may help you find the support you need across a whole range of issues.

Even though the cloud of COVID still hovers, I believe we will emerge on the other side stronger and wiser. In just one quarter at UW Tacoma, I have certainly witnessed the resiliency of our campus community. Though we need this moment to recharge, that resolute spirit fills me with gratitude for all of you and great hope for our future. I sincerely wish you and your loved ones a calm, relaxing and peaceful holiday season, and I look forward to seeing you again in January.