UNMC Chancellor H. Dele Davies, MD, shared the following message Monday with the UNMC community.
Dear UNMC Faculty, Staff and Students,
One of my favorite times of the year is the beginning of a new academic year. There is an unmistakable energy that comes with welcoming new students, seeing returning students reconnect with friends and colleagues, and recognizing the possibilities a new year brings.
This year is especially meaningful to me because it is my first opportunity as chancellor to welcome our students, faculty and staff to a new academic year at UNMC. Whether you are joining us for the first time or have been part of this community for many years, I am grateful you are here, and I look forward to connecting with you in the months ahead.
I believe UNMC is one of the finest academic health centers in the nation — not simply because of what we accomplish, but because of the people who make those accomplishments possible. Across our campuses, clinical and community sites, and online programs, thousands of individuals bring different talents, experiences and perspectives to one purpose: improving the health and well-being of the people we serve.
As this year begins, we will continue building a UNMC where people feel welcomed, supported and valued; where curiosity is encouraged; where we learn from one another; and where every person can contribute and succeed.
To our students: We are delighted you are here.
I encourage you to make the most of everything that comes with being part of UNMC. Get involved in student organizations. Meet people outside your program or profession. Take advantage of the resources available to support your well-being, like CAPS and the Center for Healthy Living. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you have questions or encounter challenges. You are surrounded by faculty and staff who are invested in your success.
I especially want to welcome the first cohort of medical students beginning their education in Kearney this year, as well as students learning throughout greater Nebraska. Your presence represents another important step in our commitment to educating the health professionals Nebraska needs, closer to the communities we ultimately hope you will serve.
And to our online students: Although you may not be physically present on campus, you are every bit as much a part of the UNMC community. I hope you feel that connection throughout your education, and I look forward to opportunities to engage with you during your time at UNMC.
To our faculty and staff: Thank you.
To those who have recently chosen UNMC as the place to build the next chapter of your careers, welcome. To those who have served this institution for years, you are the foundation of UNMC’s reputation and success. Our students’ experiences, our discoveries and the care we provide would not be possible without you.
We know the year ahead will bring challenges as well as opportunities. But UNMC has never stood still. We continue to innovate, grow and advance our missions of education, research, clinical care and service to Nebraska.
Welcome to the new academic year. I am excited about the year ahead and about all we will accomplish together.
Best,
H. Dele Davies, MD, Chancellor