To the Students, Faculty and Staff of the University of Nebraska Family:
Welcome to a new academic year at the University of Nebraska.
To the students and colleagues who are new Labs, Lopers, Huskers and Mavericks this year: We’re so glad you’re here.
A special welcome to our first-generation students. Many years ago, I was in your shoes. I guarantee you, the decision you have made to pursue higher education will change your life forever, as it did mine.
This year promises to be a special one for our university. Over the past eight weeks, as I have transitioned into this new role, I have spent a great deal of time traveling the state, visiting our campuses, and learning about the remarkable work we do every day to keep Nebraska strong and growing. I have toured sites of our world-leading agricultural work, seen the innovations we are putting in place to stay on the cutting edge of health care, and – most joyous of all – joined in the recent celebration of new University of Nebraska graduates.
In short, I am in awe of your hard work, commitment and impact. And I know I have only scratched the surface in learning the full depth and breadth of our campuses’ reach.
During these initial weeks, I have talked with hundreds of Nebraskans about what they envision for our collective future. The common thread: Almost every Nebraskan I meet cares about this university, wants us to be successful, and believes deeply in our fundamental mission to provide affordable, accessible, outstanding education to the young women and men of our state. On this, the first day of class, this has NEVER been more true!
Together we have been fulfilling that mission for more than 155 years. Today, we begin our next chapter in transforming lives, building the workforce, and strengthening our communities through our teaching, research and statewide service. I am excited to continue listening and learning from you, and I can’t wait to celebrate the many achievements I know this year will bring in the classroom, the research lab, the clinic and the playing field.
Wishing you all the best as the fall semester gets underway, and I look forward to engaging with you again soon. Please feel free to reach out any time at president@nebraska.edu.
Most sincerely,
Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D.
President, University of Nebraska