When I first set foot on campus almost 30 years ago as an assistant professor, I could never have imagined I’d be writing to you as president of the University of Washington. This is an incredible honor, and it is one that is made all the more special because I have shared this journey with so many of you. Thank you for the support and kindness you have shown me.
At a time when regents and trustees at some other institutions are questioning the ability of the academy to lead, our Regents demonstrated their belief in you. Their vote was a vote of confidence in the progress we’ve made together and in the future we have charted for the UW. This truly is our University.
As I look at our future, there are three key areas in which we have tremendous opportunities to contribute to the lives of our students, to advance the well-being of our world and to drive innovation here and around the globe.
For our students, we will provide a Husky Experience that prepares them for successful lives by coupling outstanding teaching with outstanding experiences. From internships and makerspaces, to study abroad and research, we will prepare our students to be engaged global citizens.
For those who rely on our research, scholarship and creative works, we will focus on the impact of what we do. Whether it is through environmental science that helps us be better stewards of the Earth, or by establishing vibrant futures for the arts and humanities, our work makes a difference. In all our disciplines, we can contribute to the world on a scale that few other institutions can match.
And throughout our University, we will be united by a drive to innovate. We will support and encourage new ways to tackle societal problems, from using big data to improve the health of patients and entire populations around the world, to bringing innovators together across disciplines to address challenges here in our own backyard.
All of this is in support of our proud public mission, which is firmly centered on providing both access and excellence to our students, and on advancing the health, well-being and prosperity of the people of Washington and beyond. You can learn more about our shared vision for the future in my Annual President’s Address.
Thank you for your excellence, your innovation, your creativity and your pursuit of discovery on behalf of our students, our state and the world. It is you who make our University such a special place, and it is an honor to serve as its president.