Office of the Chancellor
University of Arkansas
425 Administration Building
Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701
P 479-575-4140
F 479-575-2361
Holiday Greetings
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"Hello. Seasons greetings. As the holidays approach and we prepare for winter vacation, I wanted to take a moment to count our blessings and express our thanks.
As chancellor of the University, I am in a unique position to see and appreciate all its elements. I am frequently amazed by what our students are accomplishing; I am outright astonished by the quality of teaching, research, and outreach performed across the colleges by our faculty; and I am deeply indebted to our highly professional staff that supports the efforts of both students and faculty. They have never been more accomplished, nor our academic programs stronger. This is a first class university and I am proud to be part of it.
Though the nation has been facing difficult financial times, I think we are extremely fortunate to be working and studying at the university, and living in this community. For those who are less fortunate, though, the University is helping out. Students are volunteering with the Salvation Army and the Elizabeth Richardson Center, and several colleges are sponsoring food and gift drives for local relief agencies such as the Seven Hills Homeless Shelter and Northwest Arkansas food bank. We are also involved in an ongoing United Way campaign for Benton and Washington County charities.
As this year comes to an end, there is also a lot to look forward to. Men's and Women's basketball will be getting into full SEC swing in preparation for March Madness. We'll also be kicking off our first ever Students First Sustainability Competition with prize money to student teams who can devise the most comprehensive plan for the university. More importantly, the class of 2009 can also look forward to seeing their hard work payoff this spring at commencement.
Until then, we want to wish you and your families the best for the holidays. We would also like to extend our remembrances to all members of the university family whose loved ones passed away this last year.
Again, Jane and I feel extraordinarily blessed to be a part of the University of Arkansas, and want to thank everyone who has made this possible.
Have a great holiday, whatever traditions you may celebrate.
We look forward to 2009.
We'll see you next year.
Happy Holidays.