President Rebecca M. Bergman
I hope you all had a restful and safe Thanksgiving break. Did you find time for a few special activities that bring you joy? I carved out time for several long walks on the wooded trails near our home, and I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunities to be outside in this last week of November. A few notable nature scenes played out for my viewing and listening pleasure. The lakes in the neighborhood are not fully frozen yet, and a big flock of trumpeter swans were noisily trumpeting and honking for several hours one afternoon. I had the fun of closely watching an eight-point buck who was searching for acorns under the leaves in our backyard. And a large flock of wild turkeys marched in a single file across our front yard, apparently on their way somewhere important. For me, there is something both exhilarating and calming about observing nature and appreciating its simple beauty.
Please join me in extending a special word of gratitude to our Dining Service staff who prepared and served a Thanksgiving dinner for the students who remained on campus over the holiday. Now, as we move forward from the break and look toward the end of fall semester in a few short weeks, let’s all commit to finishing strong.
Students: Be conscientious with these last days of virtual learning, finish up those lab reports and papers, and prepare diligently for your final exams. Remember, if you are struggling in any way, help is available through the Counseling Center, the Academic Support Center, and GTS.
Faculty and staff: Thank you for your amazing efforts that have brought us successfully to this point in the semester. I encourage you to continue to put the students’ needs first, whether they are on campus or at home.
Everyone: Continue to follow the “lay low” guidelines. Minnesota COVID-19 cases continue to surge, community transmission is happening everywhere, and hospitals are filling up with patients who need specialized medical support. Let’s work hard to keep the Gustavus community safe by being extra careful to always wear a mask, follow social distancing guidelines, wash hands frequently, and avoid social gatherings.
When you need to take a break from working, studying, or grading papers, this week offers several opportunities to appreciate Gustavus Fine Arts performances, including a dance concert on Thursday evening, a theatre performance on Friday evening, a concert by the Gustavus Philharmonic Orchestra and Campus Band on Saturday evening, and a fall band concert on Sunday afternoon. See the Gustavus Fine Arts Calendar for details, including links for these livestream performances once they are available.
Please join me in supporting our students in the fine arts as they apply their creative skills in innovative ways to end the semester.
Until next week, keep up the good work, Gusties!
Yours in community,
President Bergman