At this busy time of year, when all of us are pushing hard toward the finish line, I have to remind myself to create space for reflection. Last week, I took the opportunity to attend the Spring Dance Complex. As I watched our students perform together on a creative outdoor stage, I thought back on all the ways our community has been able to innovate in arts, athletics, and student activities during this most unique academic year.
From the Department of Theatre and Dance’s radio mystery hour in November and the upcoming online performance of Three Sisters, to the recent jazz, choir, and orchestra virtual programs, to the Department of Art & Art History’s creation of additional studio space for students, to the upcoming senior art show, “6 feet apART,” our programs have found ways to show the world the power of the fine arts at Gustavus. Thank you.
Our student-athletes and coaches were asked to adjust to new ways of practicing and competing in accordance with NCAA and Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) regulations. These changes required regular testing, practicing in pods, and flexibility around scheduling. Through it all, our teams showed tremendous resilience and competed at a high level with our trademark Gustie Spirit and exemplary sportsmanship. Thank you.
I’d also like to highlight the good work of our Campus Activities Board and student organizations, who have found ways to keep students engaged through safe programs that utilized a variety of in-person and online activities. I was impressed by CAB’s virtual escape room event last week and their earlier decision to partner with the streaming service Swank so all students would have access to entertainment on campus in a safe way. Thank you.
Gusties, these acts of innovation have played a big role in helping us have a successful and safe year. Arts, athletics, and student activities are a vital part of daily life at a residential campus like ours, and I’m proud of the ways our community has adapted so we can continue to do the things we love together.
This week, think about how you’ve grown and changed over the course of the last year. What are you looking forward to when campus life returns to being more “normal”? What lessons will you take with you? How will you adapt and innovate moving forward?
We’re almost there, Gusties. Until next week, keep up the good work!
Yours in community,
President Bergman