Just days ago, Provost Chris Long and I welcomed a small group from the Class of 2029 during their tour of Tykeson Hall, part of the New Student Fall Retreat — a signature student success program from the Center for Multicultural Academic Excellence. Filled with a mixture of anxiety and awe, their presence reminded me of the amazing opportunity that all members of our community have to learn from and alongside future leaders of Oregon, America and the world. I couldn’t help but think about all of the people who have poured into the lives of our new students, thus making their journey to the UO possible. In that respect, our new students are also a testimony to the power of community and the sacred responsibility that we have to steward their experiences in ways that build the common good.
At the heart of our work is love—the deliberate act of nurturing ourselves and one another in ways that build the common good. We have the power to give love in ways that spans differences and that inspires repair and reconciliation, especially in times of pain, transition and loss.
Our vision is for love to be a powerful force that shapes how we remove every barrier that we encounter, every educational opportunity that we co-create and every community building event that we host. Love is hard work, but it pays dividends by creating more growth, more wellness, and more success.
This fall, we invite you to lean into that love and take part in the vibrant, inclusive life of our campus. Here are a few ways to engage:
Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month
Read our featured essay and visit the Día de los Muertos Altares on view from October 22 through November 5 honoring a joyful celebration of Latinx culture, memory, and community.
Honor Faith and Belief
Review UO's updated Religious Accommodations Policy to ensure all members of our community feel seen and appropriately supported in their spiritual practices.
Join Us for a Thoughtful Conversation Over Lunch
R.S.V.P. for the October 10 luncheon lecture with Dr. Jonathan Holloway, President of the Henry Luce Foundation, as he explores the social and intellectual forces shaping our world.
Enhance Your Voice
Connect with Michael Murishige, our campus-wide writing consultant, for personalized coaching to elevate your writing and storytelling.
Reflect and Write to Enhance Engagement at Work
Reserve your spot in the Write@Work Seminar, a one-hour online space for reflection and writing. This term’s theme: Transitions.
Support Student Success and Timely Graduation
Encourage students to book tutoring sessions in math, science, and writing via the Navigate App or website.
Keep Growing
Visit our events page for the latest opportunities to build community, remove barriers, and create pathways for all to succeed in healthy ways.
Together, let’s make this term a season of continued growth, connection, and love in action.
LACEfully,
Yvette M. Alex-Assensoh
VP, Equity and Inclusion