August 31, 2020

Dear Rubenstein Students: 

Today is the official start of the fall semester – Welcome Back! We are eager to see you in person and online and serve as your learning partners.  You are making history by being with us in either mode!

Each year, when I write this welcome letter, it is with excitement for the academic year ahead and the opportunities that come with it. This year, I am feeling a wide range of emotions alongside the usual elation. We are living in one of the most uncertain moments in recent history. Our collective definition of normal will be forever changed. Amidst the turbulence, I am certain of this: We have the power to actively shape the narrative of what comes next.

Before we begin a new chapter this fall, let us take a moment to reflect on and acknowledge the imperatives that we share and face. 

1.     It cannot be said enough right now… BLACK LIVES MATTER. The string of recent tragedies has revealed to the world a harsh truth that has always existed in our society and has gone on for too long. Racism exists in our society, both on an individual and structural level. The result is perpetual oppression of people of color – especially black people – and this cycle of injustice must end. The problem is known and it is real.  We must center ourselves on equity and take productive action together to dismantle racism. Our imperative:  The Rubenstein School Community must model the behavior we want to see to achieve equity and justice.

2.     COVID-19 has changed the course of history. The disease is real and its impacts are severe.  We have a critical role to play at this very moment.  We can choose to be leaders and slow the progression.  In doing so, we must wear masks, wash hands and distance for as long as it takes.  Our imperative: The Rubenstein School Community must model safe behaviors to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

3.     What does climate change look like? It looks like the wildfires in the Western United States. It looks like Hurricane Laura, and for those who remember, Hurricane Katrina. The problem is known and it, too, is real. The consequences are both synergistic and amplified when integrated with the equity and pandemic crises. The data reveal a pattern –the negative effects will disproportionately impact disadvantaged populations. Our imperative:  The Rubenstein School must intensify its focus on the intersection of equity and climate change.  

As we start this semester, let’s all seize this opportunity to model the change we want to see.  We have the power to actively shape the narrative of what comes next. 

We can and must be anti-racists. 

We can and must slow the spread of coronavirus. 

We can and must discover solutions to climate challenges. 

Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela once said, “The greatest glory of living lies not in never falling but in rising every time you fall.”  

Albert Swieitzer stated: Example is not the main thing in influencing others.  It is the only thing.

With renewed energy, more than ever before, we welcome you to the Rubenstein School. Let’s commit to work together to rise as a community. 

In solidarity, 

Nancy E. Mathews, Dean and Professor