Commemorating Presidents Day
Today is Presidents Day. Though the University officially observes the holiday later in the year, I hope all of us will take a moment during the work day to reflect about the importance of this holiday. As you know, Presidents Day marks the February birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, U.S. presidents who rank among the finest leaders produced by our nation.
The presidential election last November and the grave challenges facing the new president underscored how important strong leadership is in such times. People look to our leaders for action as well as hope, inspiration and reassurance when beset with difficulties and uncertainty.
At a time when the nation—as well as the state, our communities and, of course, the University—face serious challenges on several fronts, Presidents Day is a reminder that history teaches us that good leadership, coupled with spirited public action and commitment, are essential to overcoming obstacles and difficulties. Our faculty and staffs’ continued contributions and fine work on behalf of the University honor the principles and values of the individuals we commemorate today, and it is a lesson I hope all of us in the campus community can continue to take to heart in the coming year as we move forward in addressing the challenges before us.
Happy Presidents Day.