Dean's Messages Archive

As we enter a holiday season unlike any we have experienced before, I want to thank you, our alumni and friends, for your support, encouragement, and collaboration over the past year.

When I assumed the dean position in January 2020, I was appreciative of the opportunity and optimistic about assuming my new set of responsibilities. I was excited to transfer my experiences as a graduate student, faculty member, and administrator in the College of Arts and Architecture to the next phase of my professional journey. I was determined to visit staff and faculty members to gain a better sense of who they are, and where they work, teach, and create. Two months later my plans—and the world—came to a screeching halt.

The year 2020 has been defined in part by myriad challenges and losses brought on by the global pandemic. We are all struggling, in various ways. There is no denying that. Yet, we also have reasons to be hopeful. The distribution of vaccines is on the horizon. The start of a new calendar year is just around the corner. We also have reason to be proud. As artists and designers, we have played an integral role in helping people get through the pandemic. Through our work, we have provided an escape, a respite, and some entertainment. We have risen to the challenge of creating in unusual environments and physically distanced circumstances in small apartments, at dining room tables, in makeshift garage studios, and on late-night living room stages.

As scholars, educators, students, and staff, we had to shift, adjust, and in some cases change completely how we do our work. Who could have imagined teaching music remotely from home while students are in their dorm room? Hosting awards ceremonies and retirement celebrations through Zoom? We found ways to remain connected while being mindful of doing so while masked and from a safe distance.

Our entire College of Arts and Architecture community, of which you are a part, has rallied. You have supported us and each other in so many ways. As proud and dedicated alumni, you have performed in Penn State Centre Stage Virtual productions and have delivered remote lectures. You have remained active on alumni group boards. You have made connections with students through internships even as so many job options appear to be uncertain.

Our donors have also stepped forward during these challenging times. Through your generous contributions, we have established six Educational Equity Scholarships over the past few months, among numerous other gifts in support of our many programs. Friends of the college also showed up in a big way for #GivingTuesday, contributing generously to campaigns across the arts and design.

Thank you for being members of the College of Arts and Architecture family. I know this holiday season will be different from those we have experienced in years past. Yet, like we have demonstrated this year, we will find ways to make the most of the situation. May you find some joy and hope with friends and loved ones.

Be well. Be safe. Best wishes for a healthy and hopeful 2021.