Thank You and Happy Holidays

Dear Colleagues,

In my 24 years at Drexel, I have never experienced a more difficult year than 2020. I’ve also never experienced a more dynamic or transformational time — one full of so much change and promise. 

As always, change can be unsettling, especially when we’re experiencing it in isolation. But there has been much comfort to be found in this Drexel community, even in a remote environment. We are a different type of institution — fast-paced, adaptable, willing to roll up our sleeves and get to work. In my time here, I have seen how that mentality builds strong bonds between people. 

The challenges we’ve faced around the pandemic and social injustice have forced us to adapt and evolve in important and necessary ways, and undoubtedly, at a quicker pace than we would have otherwise. We’ve not just pivoted to teach, learn and conduct research remotely; we’ve grown our research awards during this time and found innovative ways to instruct and engage that will continue to enhance our academics long after we return to campus. What we’re learning from all of these experiences is shaping the Strategic Plan, and in turn, the future of our University. 

To all of you — our faculty, students and professional staff who’ve shown such resilience and commitment during this time, to those who are working on the frontlines of the pandemic or helping us navigate a safe return, to those working to ensure Drexel is a just, equitable and welcoming place for all — I thank you for the incredible work you’ve done to support our community and to make us a stronger university. 

I hope that all of you are able to take some well-deserved time over the next couple weeks to rest and reflect. The new year will be a pivotal time for Drexel, as all of our strategic planning shifts into the assessment and implementation phases. There will be much more work to do, but I have never known a Dragon to shy away from hard work.

Wishing you all a safe and restful break and a wonderful New Year!

Paul

Paul E. Jensen
Executive Vice President 
Nina Henderson Provost
University Professor