As we begin the holiday season, I wanted to offer my gratitude for you and for the privilege and honor it is to serve our beloved institution. This Thursday, many of us will be sharing a Thanksgiving meal together with family and friends. Others will be taking the time to rest and prepare for the end of the semester. My husband, Billy, and I will be welcoming international students into our home as we share our Thanksgiving traditions and invite them to tell us about the traditions they share with their families across the globe. We have learned so much over the last few years when hosting students as they talk about their family traditions, the importance of food, laughter, family stories, and just being together.

I want to thank each of you for being part of our UVM community, and please know that I am grateful for your many contributions. To our students, thank you for challenging us to help you think and make an impact. To our faculty, thank you for empowering our students to be learners and for creating knowledge to better our world. To our staff, thank you for ensuring we have an environment in which our students can be successful and thrive.

Reflecting on this time of gratitude, I came across a quote by Zig Ziglar that has particular meaning: “Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile, and a grateful heart.”

Have a wonderful holiday!

With gratitude,
Patty