As we enter 2026, the start of a new year offers a natural moment for reflection. While this season is often associated with fresh starts, I am acutely aware that many in our community are beginning this year with a sense of heaviness.
In times of challenge, our greatest strength is not our individual achievement, but our community. The University of Minnesota Medical School is more than an institution of science and medicine; it is a collective of people who care for one another. Now, more than ever, I encourage you to lean into that connection. To listen, to offer support, and to prioritize the well-being of those around you.
Despite the weight of the current moment, your dedication to our mission remains a source of hope. I am inspired by the grace and compassion you show your colleagues and students every day. This culture of care is the true foundation of our school.
As we move through the winter months, please take time for yourself and for each other. Our collective resilience is built on the small, daily acts of kindness that define who we are. Thank you for your dedication, your empathy, and for everything you do for the people of Minnesota.
