As we finish another fall semester, I thank all of you for your hard work, dedication, and talent that have brought so many successes to our university in the past months. Our campus continued to grow in exciting ways with the dedication of the Nonfiction Writing House and the groundbreaking of the new Health Sciences Academic Building. We enjoyed the inaugural Infinite Dream multidisciplinary festival through Hancher Auditorium, bringing innovative and inspiring performances to the campus and community. We continued to advance our student success and well-being efforts, with growth in the First Gen Hawks program and the opening of the impressive new, more accessible location of the Food Pantry in the Iowa Memorial Union. And with our partners at the UI Center for Advancement, we launched Together Hawkeyes, the largest campaign in state history, which will not only bring significant new financial support to the university but also historic levels of engagement with alumni, friends, and donors.

None of this would be possible without the caring, committed, and creative community that we enjoy here at the University of Iowa. At this time of year when we share our gratitude and count our blessings, I am humbled by my good fortune to lead this amazing institution and to be part of this exceptional community. As we take a well-deserved pause between semesters, I invite you to appreciate all the success that we share and to take time for rest and renewal. Your well-being is important to us, and if you need support now or throughout the year, don’t forget that the university offers many resources to you, including Student Wellness, liveWELL, the Employee Assistance Program, and Family Services.

Thank you again for a wonderful semester, and please enjoy this special time of year with friends and family. I look forward to seeing you in 2024 and to another great year of Hawkeye achievement!