Giving Thanks This Season for All That You Do

November 24, 2020

Dear Students,

This Fall Break as we pause in gratitude and reflect upon this semester, we write to share our deep appreciation for all of you in our student community. Columbia students have risen to the occasion – to #KeeptheCompact and persevere in difficult circumstances. It’s been inspiring to watch you maintain your commitment to your classes, research, jobs, families, and so much else. We are in awe of your resilient spirit in the face of adversity and grateful that you are a part of our Columbia community.

This is a season of giving and showing care. Everything you do to help protect your community, from getting your flu shot to stepping in to talk with a friend about the importance of upholding the compact, is grounded in these values. This is also a time when many of us are weighing the risks of getting together with family or friends. If you are considering getting together with others, please observe these tips for socializing safely and observe local public health guidelines. For those of us who are unable to be with loved ones this year – we know how difficult that can be. Keep in mind that Columbia has a host of resources available to you: Counseling and Psychological Services (Morningside)Student Health on Haven (CUIMC), and Religious Life.

Finally, take a look at our latest Student Voices blog featuring Jack Fant from the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons as he shares how he is navigating the pandemic through his physical therapy rotation and time with friends. You can find more stories like this in the Student Voices section of University Life's website.

Please accept our heartfelt thanks for all that you’ve done, and all that you continue to do. We wish you all a restful and safe break.

In community,

Professor Suzanne B. Goldberg
Executive Vice President for University Life
Herbert and Doris Wechsler Clinical Professor of Law
Gender Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Joseph Defraine Greenwell, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
Office of University Life
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His