Impossible as it seems, Thanksgiving is only two weeks from today – and, appropriately, my heart is filled with gratitude for the College of Education.
Serving as your acting dean remains an honor and privilege, and I have appreciated the opportunity to meet and interact with so many individuals impacted by our academic programs.
Homecoming allowed us to celebrate two of our amazing alumni: John “Ski” Sygielski, Ed.D. Adult Continuing Education, ’98, who received the F.R. Geigle Service Award, and James Alford, M.S.Ed. Adult and Higher Education, ’17, who won the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award.
Meanwhile, despite the rain, many of our graduate showed their Huskie Pride by coming to various events where I was able to say hello and chat with them. This included some of our “Golden Huskies” from the Class of 1973, clearly demonstrating their belief that NIU not only shaped their lives in positive ways but remains important to them 50 years later.
Of course, I’m most thankful for the team surrounding me every day. Your work on behalf of our students, your colleagues and your profession is inspirational.
With that in mind, I hope you can join me and others from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13, in the Learning Center to write “Thankful for You” notes that express your appreciation for other faculty and staff – and for students, too. Bring your lunch if you want; we’ll also provide light refreshments and desserts.
Afterward, we’ll decorate our hallways and faculty and staff spaces with these cards so that everyone knows how much they matter.
Thanks again for all you do for the College of Education, and I wish everyone a happy and relaxing holiday with family and friends.
Bill
