Following a week of reflection, I write today regarding the 2024 election. Like many in our community, I spent time considering my personal thoughts about November 5 and pondering its many potential implications for the future – especially as it relates to the persistence of glass ceilings and what it means to be a women’s-centered institution in this moment.
I came to Simmons because I believe deeply in its mission. This institution was founded for equality 125 years ago to help women achieve greater financial security and independence. Utilizing education to advance equity and social justice are principles deeply ingrained in our values. And this vision also serves as a guiding light for us in this moment.
The work of Simmons and those in our community touches so many vital areas. Our students, faculty, staff, and alums are focused on critical issues such as gender parity, social and economic equity, improving women’s health and the health of marginalized populations, and so much more. For those who care about issues such as these, our work is larger than any one election, and more important than ever. That is why we must continue to engage and be advocates for initiatives that matter to us.
As president, my priority continues to be ensuring a safe and welcoming environment where everyone in our community can thrive. I am grateful that Simmons is a place that not only embraces the diverse range of perspectives and experiences of our students, faculty, staff, and alums, but understands that our strength resides precisely in these differences.
Higher education is a transformative path forward for so many, a fact that continues to be a source of hope for me. We have much to look forward to at Simmons. Construction continues on the new Living and Learning Center. Our new, six-school structure is elevating our longstanding expertise in nursing, social work, the STEM fields, library science, management, and communications and the social sciences. The Simmons Edge and our fast-tracked graduate degree programs are helping students succeed more quickly in their careers and achieve greater economic mobility. Our Institute for Inclusive Leadership continues to be laser-focused on gender parity, leadership development, and inclusion. And our institution is one of just 25 colleges in the nation to be recognized for its commitment to leadership for the public good by the prestigious Carnegie Foundation.
These are just a few examples of the important work underway here. I am so proud of our collective commitment to using our learning, leadership, and service to make the world a better place. That is my purpose. In the coming days, I hope each of you will continue to find purpose and meaning in the issues, people, and communities you care for.
As we move forward, please also remember to take care of yourself and those around you. Utilize the many resources and supports that Simmons has to offer. While much is yet to be determined, I am confident we can take strength in our community and our ability to approach the future with empathy and resilience.