President's Message

October 30, 2020

Greetings everyone,

These “unusual times.”

I’ve used this expression quite a bit lately in many of my COVID-19 communications and conversations. It hardly captures the reality of the pandemic alone, but also the real societal strife impacting each of us and our families, our communities, our nation and our world.

As the “strife” volume gets louder, our anxiety levels go up, exhaustion sets in, and our ability to remain focused suffers. So much seems to be out of our control, which can make us feel afraid. These so-called “unusual times” are really tough – on all of us, including me.

My hope is that you are finding positive and healthy ways to cope and thrive. I don’t have answers for the bigger issues taking attention on the national stage and I am as much at a loss as you in how we resolve the heaviness of the world. What I do know is that we can focus on the things we have the power to control and let go of those we don’t.

Probably the most significant thing we can control is how we treat each other, help our students and serve our community. The idea of together we will is just that. An idea. It’s up to each of us to make it a thing (and I think we’re doing a terrific job so far).

You’ve gone the extra mile to make this year’s challenging experience positive for others, through connection and support. For that, I thank you. And please, don’t forget about taking care of yourself and asking for support. My door remains open, if only in a virtual format, and I invite you to call upon me if you have something to share or if you need my assistance.

Thank you again for all you are doing, stay well AND don’t forget one other important source of personal power – your vote.

Yours truly,

Rick MacLennan, President