Welcome to a New Academic Year
Campus Colleagues,
I hope that your summer has been one of rejuvenation and rest for your mind, body and spirit. Though our dedication to our mission at UK does not waver, it is vital that we are rested and recharged to put forth our best efforts during the academic year.
I recently had the privilege to speak at the Earle C. Clements Innovation in Education Award ceremony, where we honored four exemplary educators from across Kentucky for their dedication to education. Earle C. Clements led a prolific political career and was a staunch advocate for education in our state — he often led the charge to advance education initiatives, supporting acts to provide low-cost and free meals for students at school and increasing salaries for public school teachers.
His dedication to education through service is the same dedication I see in each of you every day — your dedication to our students and to our university continues to awe and inspire me. To maintain this level of dedication requires a great deal of effort on your part. And so, we look to the summer season for rest and recharging, in whatever form that may be for you.
As we prepare to welcome our students back to campus, I offer a welcome to you as we ramp up to the beginning of a new academic year.
I also want to welcome Dr. Jana Jasinski, the newest member of the Office of the Provost, as she moves into the role of vice provost. Today is her first day in the role, and I know that her extensive expertise in collaborating with and coordinating faculty efforts will serve as a great help in guiding you and your college’s efforts. Please join me in welcoming her.
Dr. Jennifer Greer served as acting vice provost since September of last year, and I am deeply thankful for her leadership and guidance during that time.
As we transition from the summer into the fall semester, I want to bring to your attention several planned changes that will occur regarding communications to faculty from the Office of the Provost. Previously, my weekly messages were included in the Faculty Focus, which highlighted your achievements and accomplishments. This year, my messages will be anchored in The Provost’s Academic Pulse, a biweekly newsletter that will bring important news, updates and messages from the Office of the Provost, the work of the Provisional Faculty Senate Executive Committee as well as communications from the Faculty Senate.
The Faculty Focus will remain as it was, minus my message — a way to further spotlight the incredible work faculty perform at UK. That remains a top priority. The Provost’s Academic Pulse is a new way to even further enhance consistent and open communication with the faculty body. As we go through the academic year, I will also be seeking continual input in scheduled town halls.
While we continue preparing for the upcoming semester, I am confident that — working collectively and collaboratively — we can continue leading the charge to advance Kentucky.
Thank you, and welcome back. I look forward to another fantastic year.
Robert S. DiPaola, M.D.
Provost