Over the past 12 months, personal and professional adjustments in response to the global pandemic have been a common priority in our lives. Many of these adjustments have required the assistance of other people. Expressions of gratitude for such personal and professional assistance over the past year have taken many forms — quick emails of appreciation, smiley face emoji text messages, special deliveries to front doorsteps. Whether verbal or symbolic, extending thanks during the current moment of socially and physically distanced protocols makes giving thanks more difficult yet no less genuine or sincere.

With heartfelt sincerity, I extend my thanks to everyone who supported our collective efforts in the college, University, and community during the past two semesters and a summer, all redefined by constant uncertainty and relentless shifts in health and safety guidance.

During this challenging calendar year, the University community responded quickly to the move to remote instruction and remote working arrangements. In the College of Arts and Architecture, we organized in formal and informal ways as we interpreted the guidance from the University and other decision makers. Our collective effort required additional time, consideration, and implementation actions from administrators, faculty and staff members, graduate assistants, and students. Our families also deserve acknowledgement as they endured this challenging set of circumstances with us. Not to be overlooked, I am also appreciative of our community members, alumni, donors, and friends of the college. The shifts we made to online platforms to conduct live-stream performances, exhibitions, workshops, and meetings have in many cases increased access and participation. In the face of the possibility of reducing expectations, the innovative approaches we have taken have actually opened the future to so much more. In a post-pandemic existence, whenever and whatever that may be, I am convinced we will emerge stronger.

Thank you, College of Arts and Architecture. You have demonstrated the important and necessary role the artists and designers and educators and performers can play in response to health concerns and other social needs in times of crisis. I am grateful to everyone in the college for your contributions to our collective efforts to #MoveForwardTogether.

Strong performances warrant applause, and exemplary performances deserve standing ovations. My applause and ovation to the College of Arts and Architecture for your endurance, perseverance, and dedication. The resourcefulness and resilience of this college is truly inspirational.

Thank you, all.

— B Stephen Carpenter II, dean of the College of Arts and Architecture