Message from the President: Have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season!
The following message was issued by email to students, staff, and faculty on December 20, 2022, on behalf of the Office of the President.
Dear Members of the University Community,
With exams drawing to an end and the holiday season upon us, I reflect on 2022 and am inspired by the University of Prince Edward Island community for its commitment and contributions.
This fall, we navigated a safe, full return to on-campus learning, working, and student life. This was no small undertaking and required hard work, dedication, and patience on everyone’s part. Our community came together in a way that is truly special, and for that I thank you.
To our staff and faculty, thank you for your continued dedication to excellence in teaching, research and scholarship, and service. Just yesterday, UPEI resumed its tradition of recognizing Founders, members of the University community who have contributed to it in an exceptional way. The award was presented to Dr. Doug Dahn, Cathy Gillan, and Dr. Tim Ogilvie who all played a direct role in supporting the vision, reputation, and continued success of the University and/or creating a new era of educational, research, or service excellence at the University. Read more
What was striking during the ceremony was that each Founder noted that their accomplishments were due to the support they received from the colleagues and mentors who blazed trails before them as well as being surrounded by great teams. This “sum of its parts” concept is a common thread that links UPEI to its past and will carry us well into the future—we are a supportive community that comes together, in good times and bad, to accomplish the mission of the University.
I was also pleased to see a great turnout at the President’s Holiday Reception for Faculty and Staff, after a two-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As in the past, we encouraged donations to the UPEI Campus Food Bank, promising to match donations up to $10,000. The donations continue to come in and I am grateful for the generosity of our employees, which includes a $500 donation from CUPE 1870.
To our students, congratulations on your resiliency and success! I am so glad to be together in-person again, and while the transition has been a journey, I am excited that students walking through our doors are being given so many opportunities to reach their full potential. I am Panther proud of the success of our students and the role the University of Prince Edward Island plays in their development as global citizens.
As we near the end of the Fall Academic Semester, I know it hasn’t always been easy for everyone. The pandemic, recent hurricane, and current economic conditions have drained our spirits, and I realize that many are struggling. As we head into the holiday break, I hope that everyone is able to relax, recharge, and spend time with loved ones, doing things that make them happy.
Our UPEI community remains strong, and I am optimistic that, by continuing to work together and support one another, we will continue to thrive. On behalf of the entire University of Prince Edward Island Senior Team, I would like to wish you a happy and safe holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in the new year.
Regards,
Greg
