Monday, January 19, 2009

Martin Luther King Day

Today and tomorrow we witness a happy convergence with a celebration of the life of Martin Luther King and the inauguration of our new president Barack Obama. Our country will be entering a new era of hope and optimism brought about by a new presidential administration despite the difficulties that face us. It is a new semester for those of us at Rutgers, and this gives us all a fresh opportunity  to begin anew as well in our learning endeavors. Just as the call has gone out for those in the U.S. to participate in service, at RU we work together to create the educational experience...it is not given, but made jointly by all of us, faculty, students, and administrative staff.

Change is the word of the day, as it was during the presidential campaign, and on reflection, the word 'change' makes us even more aware of the rapid change in communication and information. Some say it is also a time of writing renaissance because of the ease of access to publishing platforms, both online and in the printed word...platforms for our ideas, images, and stories as well as tools to connect with others. As students I hope all SCILS members will take the time to talk with faculty and visit them online or in their offices, despite day to day pressures at work and in school.

To students I also say 'welcome,' to a new semester, and although things will change in our lifetime, I hope your connection with our school will endure. Even after graduation, I hope you will remain involved as alumnae/alumni of Rutgers. On this day in January, 2009 please know that the faculty members and staff are here to support you. We are deeply invested in your success and wish you well during this momentous week in our history as a nation and in our own academic world.