Dear Colleagues:
Time passes quickly at the George Washington University, thanks to continued growth and progress in our academic and research missions at the hands of our hardworking students, faculty, and staff. Now, we are nearly at the end of an academic year defined by forward momentum across the university, including transformative investment in endowed professorships; progress in our diversity program review; new dining options, including all-you-care-to-eat plans at Thurston Hall and Shenkman Hall and the Hillel kosher café; the return of traditional programming such as First Night, Midnight Breakfast, and the GW Gala; and, of course, the exciting announcement of President-Elect Ellen Granberg, who will join GW in July.
While there is much to celebrate, I ask that you remain focused on supporting our students as they endeavor to finish the year strong. It is a time of heightened stress and anxiety, so it is more important than ever that they remain attuned to their mental and physical health needs so that they can perform at their highest level and achieve their goals. I encourage you to make sure your students are aware of our list of resources that can guide them regarding academics, engagement, mindfulness and mental health, and physical health. And, of course, it is critical that you continue taking care of yourselves as well during this busy time of exams and grading.
I would also like to share a piece of news regarding Office of the Provost leadership. Emily Hammond, our vice provost for faculty affairs, will be stepping down from their role this summer. Emily has navigated the vice provost role with exceptional aptitude, grace, and humor, and they have accomplished much to enhance the experience and wellbeing of GW’s faculty. I hope you will take a moment to reach out to Emily and thank them for all their hard work this academic year. While Emily prepares to transition out of their role, we invite applications for the vice provost for faculty affairs position. I encourage all interested eligible faculty members to apply.
Finally, as I wrote last week, I hope you will register for Commencement Week activities, which includes Commencement on the National Mall as well as school and college events. Registration closes May 12.
I look forward to joining you as we welcome President-Elect Granberg as she begins her historic presidency. I wish you all the best in the coming days, and have a restful summer.
Sincerely,
Christopher Alan Bracey
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
Professor of Law