Welcome to the Fall 2021 semester at SJSU’s Lurie College of Education. We are so excited to be back on campus this fall and very much look forward to connecting with you in person. Our faculty, staff, and student leaders have been working hard to prepare engaging and meaningful in person and virtual experiences that are designed to support you on your educational journey.

The past year and a half has repeatedly demonstrated the importance of the academic and professional fields housed in our college. As our society has grappled with the overlapping pandemics of COVID 19, economic inequality, racial injustice, and environmental degradation, it is our teachers, counselors, therapists, school and community leaders who are providing possibility and hope to children, families, and communities.

As a college, we are committed to preparing you to be transformative leaders in your fields. In your classes this semester you’ll be challenged to explore new ideas and dig deep into critical questions. You’ll also have opportunities to connect to faculty and advisors outside of class, work on faculty-led research projects, and pursue initiatives connected to our college strategic plan. Our student-led clubs offer academic enrichment, advocacy, and social activities. And I encourage you to make time to go to your professors’ office hours, drop by our Student Success Center, and just hang out with other students in your program – this human connection is something that we’ve all been craving during the past year and a half. And it is in these informal interactions that life-long connections are made and some of the best, most transformative learning takes place.

As we navigate the coming semester, I encourage you to be patient with yourselves and others as we all adapt to the evolving dynamics of the pandemic. Please take care of yourselves and prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional health. Look out for members of our larger community by remembering to wear your mask, stay home, and get tested if you have any COVID symptoms, and – if you haven’t already, please get vaccinated. Our faculty and staff are working to ensure the safest conditions possible. Stay in close communication with your professors and program advisors, ask questions if you need clarification, and reach out if you have a physical or mental health concern. More information about SJSU health policies and additional resources can be found on the SJSU Adapt website. These are challenging times and we all need to prioritize kindness and generosity in our community and remember to give grace to yourselves and one another.

My hope for you is that you will find joy this semester. In the midst of multiple pressures and sometimes overwhelming challenges, I hope that you find joy in your classes, in our Lurie College community, and in the purpose and passion that brought you to SJSU. Our faculty, staff, and leadership team are here to support you and champion your success at every step along your journey.

Take good care and have a fantastic Fall semester!