If you’re like me, you’ve had more than your fill of campaign ads and mailbox postcards – and now you’re grateful that the midterm elections are over, even if some of the results didn’t match your vote.
Feeling thankful simply because you “won’t have to see that commercial again” demonstrates that gratitude is available in the smallest of things.
Yet I believe that the best and strongest form of thankfulness is drawn from the people around us.
Leading the NIU College of Education remains an honor and privilege, and I appreciate all of your contributions that allow us to serve, thrive, grow and advance into the future. I appreciate everything you do for our students, for our college and for our community partners.
Each step forward is a team effort, and I am thankful for that. Each new idea, whether it evolved from one person or a group, is fuel for our momentum, and I am thankful for that. Each new day is an opportunity to try something new or do something better, and I am thankful for that.
My “something new” begins July 1, when I will become interim executive vice president and provost at NIU. Before then, Provost Ingram will oversee a search for an interim dean for the College of Education to fill my responsibilities here while I am in Altgeld Hall working on behalf of the university.
Please know that I am excited for this new chapter and grateful for what I believe is a recognition of all of our great work in the College of Education. We are seen, we are respected and we are valued – and none of us walks alone.
Like me, I know that you are equally thankful for your colleagues, and that when you witness one of your teammates making a positive difference, I hope you’ll take the time to share that with the campus.
NIU Today’s “Applaud A Colleague” section allows you to “say thanks for a job well done” to those who go above and beyond in their work. The recognition you provide will make that person’s day – and probably yours.
As we approach the holidays, and as we prepare to gather with family and friends next week for Thanksgiving, I continue to count the amazing people in the College of Education as one of my greatest joys serving in this role and on this team.
My best, and thanks again for all you do and for your support,
