With the first few weeks of classes behind us and January coming to an end, I am feeling energized and excited for the semester ahead.
The fall was busy, rewarding, and inspiring. My first semester as Dean of the Rubenstein School was full of nonstop learning, reconnecting with past colleagues and friends, and meeting our community of incredible students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Some highlights from the past several months include our undergraduate students’ incredible summer experiences, our graduate students’ work in the Adirondacks, the Pacific Islands, and on the launch of ̽̽’s Planetary Health Initiative. Throughout the fall our faculty shared their expertise at the U.N. Biodiversity Conference and important research findings on deforestation, lake trout, and safe passages for wildlife. And Dr. Marie C. Vea, our Assistant Dean of Student Services was recognized for her unwavering commitment to inclusive excellence at ̽̽.
This semester, I am thrilled to welcome new faculty members to the Rubenstein School, who will further our impact in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology and Traditional Ecological Knowledge – Dr. Thaïs Bernos and Dr. Helina Jolly. Their contributions to our students’ learning and our research will be invaluable.
I am proud to be a part of this growing community that is strengthened by its diverse perspectives and identities. In the weeks and months ahead, I encourage you to lead with your values and to bring your unique lived experience into your work, learning, research, and communities.
As we witness devastating wildfires in California, I am thinking of all our community members who are impacted by this latest climate disaster. So many are experiencing tremendous loss. I am with you, and your friends, advisors, professors, and colleagues in the Rubenstein School are here for you.
I so believe in what we’re doing here. The world needs our work now more than ever. You are a part of and contribute to a group of people who care deeply about education, our environment, and sustainability, and we see these challenges through the lens of equity and inclusion. As Reverand Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.” While our work on a day-to-day basis can sometimes seem small, when we add up our combined efforts, they have a big impact.
If you’re seeking more inspiration, read these stories about the incredible work happening across the Rubenstein School. Get involved and take action. These are the powerful ingredients of change.
Thank you for all that you do – it really does make a difference,
Peter
P.S. Enjoy the snow!
