Dear UMD Campus Community:
Thank you for another great year at UMD! Our students continue to excel in academics, athletics, and many other areas of student life. Our faculty, staff, and alumni are amazing in their achievements and in their support of UMD.
2012 was also a challenging year. We made great progress in our efforts to create a positive and inclusive campus climate, but we had incidents of racism and other harmful behaviors that are counter to our core values and university goals. We will continue to be diligent in advancing equity, diversity and social justice, and we will not stop until we have a safe and welcoming campus for everyone.
I also want to thank you for your involvement in the Duluth community. Every week I hear stories about the difference our faculty and staff are making through research, volunteering, and contributing time, expertise, and financial support to agencies that need our help.
I am proud of our donations to CHUM's Food Shelf and to the Union Gospel Mission during our End of Semester Buffet. You gave 515 pounds of food for CHUM's Food Shelf and $706.44 to the Union Gospel Mission. It would be impossible to meet the needs of our neighbors without the generous support of community partners. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
You have my best wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday season. While we celebrate this time of year in many different ways, I hope that you will have a chance to rest with those who are close to you and to work for peace and an end to violence in this country. The children and families who were affected by the tragic shooting in Newtown, Connecticut are in particular need of our best wishes and commitment to create a safer space for everyone.
I look forward to great things in 2013, and I am proud to be your Chancellor and your colleague.
Sincerely,
Lynn Black
