A message to Division of Student Affairs staff

May 23, 2019

Dear Colleagues,

Thank you for attending yesterday’s End of Year Gathering. I hope the event created an opportunity for us to come together as one, supportive, student affairs family. I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all you do in service of our division, and most importantly, our students.

Your efforts this past year went a long way toward helping us cultivate a first-rate student experience, and I am proud of all that we accomplished. Your contributions provided for a safe and welcoming community and inspired our students to succeed at Rutgers and beyond.

This year marked my first serving as your vice chancellor and I have appreciated your continued support as I transitioned into a new role. Over the last couple of semesters, I’ve participated in various events and activities, chatted with you in person, and conversed with you over the phone and email. What I’ve taken away from each interaction is a reminder of your steadfast commitment to our students and to each other.

While the hectic pace of our work may make you feel like your contributions are at times overlooked, I assure you that the impact you’ve made on our students never goes unnoticed. Whether you serve as a cook, dean, educator, administrator, trainer, health care provider, or advisor, you’ve all played a role in shaping our division and the student experience. Together, we have created an environment that supports learning and development and equips our students with the tools they need to be engaged members of a global society.

As we move into the summer, I encourage you to take the opportunity to reflect, celebrate your successes, and plan for the year ahead. While many of us will be preparing to welcome our newest Scarlet Knights, I also urge you to find time to relax and re-energize. It is my hope that we stay true to our culture of care and I ask that you continue to look out for and support one another.

In the coming months, please be on the lookout for a McGinty Star Awards nomination request, which can serve as an opportunity to recognize those among us who have made a considerable impact on our students and our division. The division’s Health and Wellness Campaign will hold its annual summit on Monday, June 3 and I hope that you will be able to join us in exploring how the different dimensions of wellness impact our mental health.

Thank you again for all that you do to make Rutgers our collective home away from home. I am humbled by your commitment and dedication and look forward to building on our efforts in the coming year. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you as a trusted partner, friend, and colleague.

It is an honor and privilege to serve you and our students.

Sincerely,
Sal