As the first week of the Fall term draws to a close, I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to all of you for contributing to the successful launch of the new academic year, as we welcomed close to 9,000 students to virtual and on-campus classrooms and labs.
This start of term is unlike any other we have ever experienced, and it represents more than five months of hard work, as we’ve all pivoted, adapted and persevered through the spring and summer to provide our students with the opportunity to pursue and achieve their academic goals in a very different learning environment.
I am continuously amazed by our faculty’s ability to innovate and find new ways to adapt Niagara College’s distinct and high-quality academic programs to new modes of delivery, whether remotely or in safe on-campus settings. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to student success and our College’s high academic standards.
Similarly, our service areas continue to find new ways to modify and provide the key supports our students rely on, whether it’s through virtual or in-person delivery. You have enhanced college life at an extraordinary time through virtual Orientation and other activities that helped to get students off to the right start this week. I am grateful for your ongoing commitment to our students and their safety and success.
Those of you who work in operational areas of the College have been crucial to our ability to continue to operate through uncertain times. Your commitment to providing safe and healthy learning and working environments have helped to ensure that our campuses and systems are ready for our students and employees. Thank you for your ongoing hard work.
Finally, a special thank you to those who have worked shifts at our access points this week, ensuring the safety of our campuses while providing a much-needed warm welcome for students who may be feeling uncertain or stressed as they return to campus. Your efforts truly make the ‘NC difference.’
I am sure that, as the terms unfolds, we will continue to encounter hurdles and challenges, but we’ve shown repeatedly that we can overcome obstacles by working #NCTogether.
I hope you enjoy some well-deserved rest this weekend. Whether you’re in a virtual or in-person classroom, in an office on campus or working remotely, I wish you the best for the Fall term.
