Teaching and Learning at the University
Since the start of the semester, the campus community has dealt with a variety of challenges that have affected us at Cal State Northridge in some way. These include the delayed state budget, the global economic crisis and the tragic train collision of last month. And, of course, there were the wildfires earlier this week, which resulted in a partial closure of the campus and the disruption of many people’s lives and families. These incidents are a reminder that all of us deal with a myriad of issues and problems—both large and small—in our personal lives and at school and work every day.
As some of you know, as my schedule allows I take regular walks around campus. These walks give me an opportunity to meet and engage with faculty, students, staff and others in an informal and impromptu manner, and to hear about what is going on in their lives and what particular challenges they are facing.
My most recent walks have served to remind me of the worthwhile work being done on campus every day. The important and extraordinary day-to-day work of the University in teaching, learning, scholarship, and service has carried on, and we continue to change lives in positive ways and create opportunities for people every day. Even in the face of recent uncertainties and calamities, Cal State Northridge has settled into the comfortable rhythms of the academic year: students are currently preparing for and taking mid-term exams; faculty and staff continue to learn and be engaged in teaching, research, and scholarship; and the community continues to benefit from the our diverse programs and services.
We should all take comfort and pride in knowing that, despite the many obstacles that have come our way (which in the history of this campus has also included a major earthquake), Cal State Northridge has not simply survived but excelled. This resiliency is a reflection of the character and qualities of the dedicated people who collectively make the University the outstanding and caring institution it is. As we continue with our work this semester and through the year—and into the future—I draw great comfort in knowing that despite any challenge that might come our way, the one constant will be our shared commitment to the University’s mission to provide the highest quality academic experience and services to students and the community. In times of uncertainty and crisis, this deep reservoir of confidence in the institution and in all of you provides me with reassurance and a measure of perspective about the importance of our daily work here.