Dear AU Community,

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’m grateful for each and every member of our community. I know you have endured many challenges this year, and while we are starting to see light at the end of the tunnel, we still have tough times ahead before the pandemic is under control. While celebrating the holidays is different this year, it is so important to appreciate the things we love, recognize the achievements we’ve made, and find hope in the possibilities that lie ahead in the better days we know are coming. 

In true AU fashion, you continued to help and serve others throughout the pandemic. From our students, who worked at food banks, volunteered as poll workers, and supported public health organizations; to our faculty, who worked tirelessly to support our students and demonstrated creativity and problem-solving spirit in their classes; to our staff, who transformed our operations throughout the pandemic to ensure our students continued to receive excellent support; and our alumni, who supported the Student Emergency Relief Fund to provide help to students who are facing financial hardships due to COVID-19 and served as guest speakers in more than 30 classes this semester. These are just a few examples of how Eagles change the world one hopeful action at a time.  

During this Thanksgiving week, we are all experiencing different and difficult feelings. So many are hurting, and celebrating might feel out of place. Even though our Thanksgiving tables might not be the same as previous years, my hopeful wish is that we can all find peace, comfort, and yes, joy in the things that matter most. For those who cannot be with family this year, your AU family is always here for you. For those missing loved ones or struggling with the pain that COVID-19 has caused, our hearts are with you.  

There is no “normal” this year, but there are always the bonds that bring us together as people and as Eagles. They sustain us and will see us through to brighter times in 2021. I hope you have a restful Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you again for all you have done in this most trying of years. 

Be safe and be well. 

Sylvia