The year 2020 will be one that I will long remember for the challenges we faced, individually and collectively. And I will remember 2020 for the way we responded. Months ago, a colleague referenced the quote from James L. Allen: “Adversity does not build character, it reveals it.” Those words came to mind countless times throughout this year as I saw the character of our institution revealed through the character of the individuals that comprise it. I am grateful that I have been able to witness the thoughtful approaches, the kindnesses, and the commitment by those individuals — all are inspirational.
To our World Campus students, I am grateful that you selected Penn State as an important part of your educational journey. You persisted in pursuing your educational goals while managing disruptions and uncertainty. And by leaning into your education, you enriched the learning environment for your classmates. You inspire through your tenacity and resilience.
To the World Campus staff, thank you for adjusting quickly to new work environments, either yours or your co-workers. The intersection of home life with work life has no doubt at times been frustrating, and sometimes comical, but through it all, your commitment to students and to your colleagues was at the forefront. You inspire through your adaptability, empathy, and professionalism.
To our World Campus donors, thank you for demonstrating your trust in us, and for helping us in these extraordinary times to meet the ongoing and emerging needs of learners. Your confidence in our ability to make the most of your contributions is uplifting. You inspire through your generosity.
To the faculty who teach World Campus students and the academic partners with World Campus, thank you for the flexibility that you provided to students as they addressed additional challenges in their own lives. Your concern for student wellbeing was equal to your commitment to their academic success. You inspire through your dedication.
Thank you, all, for meeting adversity with the strength of character and a commitment to our students and each other.
—Renata Engel, vice provost for online education