End of academic year message
To the campus community:
As we prepare to graduate the class of 2012, I want to recognize the hard work and commitment of the faculty and staff who provide the instruction, scholarship and support that are essential to the success of our students and the mission of the university.
We live in interesting times. Funding issues continue to confound and constrain, and students are feeling pressured from many sides. Yet despite these challenges, we have not merely survived, we have flourished at Cal State Northridge. This spirit of resourcefulness and collaboration is ingrained in our culture and reflects a dynamic outlook that is passed on to the students we prepare for personal and professional success.
This past academic year, we said farewell to President Jolene Koester, a respected and prized leader, and next month we welcome our new president, Dr. Dianne F. Harrison, who will bring with her fresh ideas and priorities for furthering the excellence of California State University, Northridge. We are fortunate to have found a president who shares the same qualities and values we hold dear. I ask you to join me in warmly welcoming President Harrison in June and giving her the support she will need to advance the mission of the university.
With this in mind, I am pleased to announce that President Harrison plans to deliver her first convocation address on Thursday, August 23, 2012, at 9 a.m. at the Valley Performing Arts Center. Please mark your calendars—a formal announcement with details about the address will be distributed later this summer.
I hope that summer provides everyone with an opportunity to enjoy some time off and rejuvenate. It has been a great privilege to serve as interim president. I look forward to returning to my role as provost and working with all of you to continue the good work of the university, address the challenges we face, and support President Harrison's initiatives and priorities for promoting the success of our students.
Harry Hellenbrand
Interim President