Instead of writing about one of the College's Core Values this month, I wanted to share with you what I am thankful for this holiday season: all of you.
I firmly believe a university's greatness comes from its people. And, all of you – students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends – help to make this a special and extraordinary place.
Our College of Charleston family is like any other family. We have a shared love and passion for our institution that binds us closely together. We have ideas about who we are and who we should be and, yes, we sometimes have differing views about those ideas. But through it all, we always work together to support each other and to advance our university so we can be the nationally preeminent liberal arts and sciences university as described in our College's Strategic Plan, which we continue to work hard to implement.
I can't say it enough: I have immense gratitude for every member of our campus community. We are a large and complex organization, and – because of you – we are able to accomplish so much and add to our great 245-year legacy.
As the year comes to a close, I will continue to reflect on our history, our path forward and our family's many contributions internally and externally in Charleston, the Lowcountry and beyond. Because of you, I have so much hope and optimism for 2016 – I know it will be another great year for the College. Our shared governance is stronger than ever, and, by continuing to work together, we will keep bringing our unique and transformational experiences of the liberal arts to new generations of students. Our future is bright and boundless, and I can't wait to see what extraordinary achievements our College family accomplishes in the New Year.
I wish you and your loved ones a happy holidays and a healthy and prosperous New Year. I hope you are able to relax and enjoy some quality time with family and friends.