Dear members of the ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ community,
For more than 200 years, ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ, as an institution, has enjoyed bright periods and has also weathered difficult times to emerge stronger and more resilient. As we reach the end of this fall semester, we find ourselves facing challenges that have cast uncertainty on the delivery of our mission and have tested our principles of academic freedom, integrity, responsibility, equity, and inclusiveness.
This semester was also marked by the catastrophic loss of human life arising from the conflict in the Middle East – a crisis that continues to weigh heavily on us since October, particularly on the many members in our community who are personally affected.
With each challenge that our university has faced over time, we have demonstrated our ability to rise to the occasion through our sheer resourcefulness and capacity for innovation, our commitment to fostering open, peaceful dialogue, and our unshakable determination to advance our mission and serve our communities.
Quite simply, ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐians are strong. We know how to work together to meet the toughest challenges.
This collective strength of character has carried us through difficult periods before, and it will continue to serve us well as we navigate the current situation together. The path forward may not be easy, but we are reminded of ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ’s motto, Grandescunt Aucta Labore: By work, all things increase and grow.
Amid much uncertainty, it has been heartening to hear from members of our community, both near and far, who have generously shared their support and perspectives. Equally inspiring has been the numerous and diverse expressions of excellence that we continue to see across ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ’s campuses – achievements that are making a positive impact in Quebec, Canada, and around the world.
And so, as we enter this holiday season, a period that invites reflection and gratitude, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all members of our ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ community: our students, faculty, and staff, as well as to our thousands of alumni around the world. Thanks to each of you – through your steadfast efforts, your commitment to excellence, and your meaningful engagement in the life of our university – I know that we will see brighter days ahead, both for ƽÌØÎå²»ÖÐ and for our world.
With warmest wishes for an enjoyable and restful holiday.
Sincerely,
Deep Saini
President and Vice-Chancellor
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