Happy Friday!
I wanted to take a moment to send a brief message to the CSI community. As you know, I began my tenure as interim President this past Monday. Since then, I’ve “hit the ground learning” and have met with and spoken to many folks. I am impressed by the dedication of my new colleagues who have stood strong amidst a challenging rise in COVID cases, new mandates from state and city officials, and now, the first snowfall of 2022. It is clear that my excitement at joining the College of Staten Island was not misplaced: everyone with whom I have interacted has already and consistently demonstrated their commitment to this campus and a passion for our mission and the students we serve.
In the coming weeks I will be meeting with various constituents and stakeholders, both on campus and off. I have meetings with faculty governance leaders, community partners, student representatives, and local elected officials planned. I also intend to hold town halls and informal gatherings where I can solicit input and advice that will inform our institutional priorities moving forward. Although my calendar is filling quickly, I am never too busy to entertain casual conversation about matters of interest and concern—however parochial they may seem—with any member of the CSI community. You have my assurance that your concerns will be taken seriously, and that I will work to address the issues you raise.
It is clear that the College has important issues to address: a looming reaccreditation visit, ongoing enrollment declines, and budgetary shortfalls are not to be taken lightly. But I am deeply impressed by the individual and collective commitment to “getting the job done” that I have seen in just a few short days on campus… and I am convinced that this attitude will serve us well as we meet—and overcome—these and other challenges.
Thank you, again, for the warm and inspiring welcome. I look forward to meeting more of you in the coming weeks and months, and to working with all of you.
By Timothy G. Lynch, Ph.D.
