As we near the end of 2020, it marks a year that no one could have fully anticipated, given the unprecedented challenges and tragedies. But it was also a year marked by so many acts of pure heroism, a rising up of an amazing cross-section of Americans, including Penn Staters, to raise their voices against injustice, acts of incredible selflessness and kindness, and in no small measure, provided a reaffirmation of human resiliency and spirit. These have been revealed at a global as well as national level, but also locally, and given our community here in the Graduate School, among all of you. 

I am no less than inspired by each of you and at what we have been able to collectively accomplish to support our mission for our students and graduate education at Penn State. But I also know there have been many of those acts of kindness displayed in supporting each other and helping those in greater need in our local community and beyond, in so any ways. I am beyond appreciative, and in some of my own challenged moments have been sustained by all of you.

As we near the upcoming winter break and holidays, my hope is for each of you to remain safe, healthy, take the time to rest (physically and mentally), connect safely with your family, friends and loved ones, and be assured that when we return, we will get through the New Year together.

With my infinite thanks and appreciation.

Jean Vasilatos-Younken

Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Dean of the Graduate School