Giving Thanks

Re: Giving Thanks

To: All campus

Nov. 20, 2020

 

To the Campus Community,

 

Every year at this time, UC Merced prepares for a long, quiet holiday weekend. Historically we have visited family or made space for loved ones to join us. We have paused for a moment to reflect in gratitude on what we have, and we have made efforts to remember those who may not have as much and do what we can to help.

 

This year, the holiday feels different. Traveling and gathering can add to our communal challenges. For many, it may be more difficult to muster the same inventory of blessings as in past years. As a nation many have suffered losses. You might ask: what is there to be thankful for this year?

 

To that, I respond: I am thankful for this community. I am thankful for the ways in which we support each other, show resilience in difficult times and lift up those in need. I am thankful for our commitment to seek solutions in the midst of the crisis brought on by COVID-19, in order to minimize the impact on our most vulnerable community members. I am thankful for each of you, who have faced obstacles this year yet have shown up day after day, to teach and to learn, to clean and to build and, yes, to inspire — to support one another and the mission of UC Merced.

 

Mr. Rogers once said, that when the news shows one dismal story after the next, to remind ourselves: “Look for the helpers; you will always find people who are helping.” At UC Merced, we have no shortage of Big Cat Heroes . I encourage all who are able to be the helpers who are so needed right now. There are a number of opportunities to do so, including working with our Community Engagement Center , donating to the Bobcat Pantry and Basic Needs Hub , or volunteering and donating to the Merced County Food Bank .

 

I wish you and your families a quiet and restful holiday break, and hope that you will each do your part to continue to keep your family and friends and our community healthy.

 

Be well,

 

Juan Sánchez Muñoz, Ph.D.

Chancellor