As a new semester begins, I’m reflecting on how energizing and challenging this time of year can be. To start, I want to acknowledge that there have been many serious and scary events happening in the U.S. and internationally, which are impacting members of our community directly. The Rubenstein School is full of caring individuals who are here to support one another – reach out when you need to.

Fall was a busy time and I’m proud of all that our students, faculty, and staff accomplished in classes, labs, and communities. One of my favorite highlights from last semester was seeing the partnership between our first-year students and teaching assistants with the City of Burlington, here’s a video of their final lab of the semester at Callahan Park during a snowstorm.

This spring is set to be as busy and impactful as ever. I am excited to welcome new faculty member Sara LoTemplio to our Parks, Recreation, and Tourism program. Dr. LoTemplio is an Assistant Professor with a background in cognitive neuroscience. She is Director of the RAAIN lab and studies the restorative effects of natural environments on attention and mood. 

Strategic planning is a big area of focus for us this semester. As the UVM Strategic Plan is finalized, we will dive into creating an aligned strategic plan for the Rubenstein School. This plan will detail our priorities for the next five years. Throughout this process we will engage our students, faculty, staff, advisors, and partners. 

There are many exciting events and opportunities for connection coming up at UVM. On January 29, 2026, the UVM Division of Intercultural Excellence is offering a wonderful opportunity to honor the legacy of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. Please consider attending the MLK Keynote address with special guest speaker Rosalyn "Roz" Pelles. Learn more at go.uvm.edu/mlk.

Thank you for all you do to make the Rubenstein School a safe and welcoming place to learn, teach, and work.