Message from the President: Fireside Chat on September 23
The following message was also emailed to UPEI students, faculty, and staff on September 19, 2024.
Dear UPEI Community,
It has been an exciting time on the UPEI campus with the beginning of the Fall Semester—there is a “change in the air” as we settle into our routines. The New Student Orientation and Welcome Back to Campus events were extremely successful and I thank all those who were involved in ensuring we are all off to a great start.
Upon arrival at UPEI, the Board and I agreed to a list of goal and priorities for my first year. UPEI Board of Governors Chair Shannon MacDonald and I invite you to a Fireside Chat on Monday, September 23 at 10 am in the amphitheatre in the Performing Arts Centre (PAC 121S) where we will outline and discuss my goals and priorities as President and Vice-Chancellor. For those of you who wish to participate virtually, please join us at this Teams link. I look forward to exploring these opportunities with the UPEI community.
In the coming days and weeks, there will be several occasions to further connect with each other—to celebrate our present and to share ideas about the University’s future. UPEI Homecoming takes place September 23–29, including social, varsity, and alumni events. There will also be a number of strategic planning consultations next week and into October (more information to come later today). I encourage you to participate!
While there is so much positive energy on campus, we also know that some members of our diverse and global campus community are experiencing hardship. We are all aware of several political conflicts and wars around the world. Members of our UPEI community come from these countries and/or have family and friends in those regions. They may be anxious and worried about their loved ones, as well as the socio-political causes and outcomes of these conflicts. In addition to the international conflicts, recently there have been numerous tragically violent events in our region and across the country. These events are stressful. Students, staff, and faculty do not have to handle these difficult situations by themselves. UPEI is a supportive community––let's keep an eye out for each other and build networks of support. The University offers support to all its members.
For a list of supports, visit the Department of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Human Rights web site to access the “Find Supports and Services” web pages.
Students may also contact the Department of Student Affairs at studentserv@upei.ca, or the International Student Office at irostu@upei.ca.
Staff and Faculty may access the Employee Family Assistance Program at 1-844-880-9142 or visit the Human Resources page on myUPEI to access information about resources and benefits.
Thank you for taking care of one another. I hope to see you at our upcoming community events.
With best wishes,
Wendy
