There is no denying that the last few months have been very challenging for the province's post-secondary sector, and I recognize that this is a difficult time for the University of Lethbridge.
I want to thank all those who have contributed to the ongoing budget discussions and brought your valued perspectives into the conversation. From the General Faculties Council and the Strategic Planning Committee to the Budget Advisory Committee and Dean's Council to the many individual students, staff and faculty who have taken part in the process, your contributions will help us move forward effectively as we continue to work together.
As difficult a time as this is, we can never forget that we are an educational institution and as such, we have the great pleasure of being able to graduate a large number of students each spring and fall. As Spring 2013 Convocation approaches, let us take the time to celebrate all the terrific things we do daily at the University in support of the young people we educate at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
The challenge that lies before us is substantial and in no way do I want to minimize its impact on the University community, but it is in times such as these that we must take pride in the incredible value the University of Lethbridge brings to the city of Lethbridge, the province of Alberta and beyond. We will not be deterred in continuing to graduate these amazing young people, and we will continue to perform outstanding research that benefits society. This will continue today, tomorrow and many years from now as we remain committed to growing as a comprehensive research university.
All of this is possible because of the people who contribute to the University of Lethbridge. Do not forget the contributions you make to the University and take pride in the fact that regardless of the challenges that confront us, we will always look forward and we will continue to build the U of L and its impact on society.
I urge you to attend the May 30-31 convocation ceremonies and watch our students cross the stage to receive their degrees. You have all played a role in their successes and thereby have helped to make an impact on society. These are our future accountants, musicians, chemists, nurses, teachers, psychologists, artists and so much more.
We, as an institution, help create something that society tremendously appreciates, bright young minds eager to make contributions to our world.
We are all dealing with difficult challenges at this time, but remember to recognize that as our graduates cross the stage, their whole lives lay in front of them – a future for which we have helped them prepare.
In the end, that is what the University of Lethbridge is all about and it's something we will continue to do, regardless the obstacles we face.
This column first appeared in the May 2013 edition of the Legend. For a look at the entire issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.