December 2, 2024

Dear William Paterson Faculty and Staff,

I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday break and has returned recharged for what promises to be a busy dash to the end of the Fall semester. This is a good time to check in with our students and do everything we can to support them as they deal with the inevitable pressure that comes with finals and the end of the semester so that we can help them finish strongly.

As we prepare to celebrate another successful semester, I hope that you will be able to join us for our Holiday Reception on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in Hobart Manor. To help us plan a great event, please let us know if you will be able to join us using this link by this Thursday, Dec. 5.

Returning, for a moment, to our wonderful Homecoming and Family Day on November 9, I want to correct an oversight by thanking more of the key contributors to the event’s success who were not named in my November 18 communication. The following individuals lead, managed, and contributed to a variety of activities, leading to an enjoyable day for our alumni and the rest of our Pioneer community: Francisco Díaz, Associate Vice President, Student Development; Michele Martin, Professional Services Specialist, Student Development; Donna Minnich Spuhler, Director, Campus Activities, Service and Leadership; and Eva Reyes, Director, Parent and Family Relations. Thanks to these individuals in leadership positions and to everyone who contributed to a successful day.

This week’s WP: We are Proud – Congratulations once again to our 2024 service milestone honorees! Their dedication and contributions enrich our community and make William Paterson University a great place to learn and work. We are genuinely fortunate to have each of them on the WP team. We came together to celebrate their achievements at the Annual Service Awards Breakfast on November 4, in the University Commons Ballrooms. Employees who marked significant milestones in their service—ranging from 10 to 50 years, in 5-year increments – were honored. The celebration recognized their unwavering commitment to the University. It included a special opportunity for each honoree to take a picture with the President and their Divisional Cabinet member or designee—a memorable way to commemorate this special landmark in their careers and in the life of the University.

By the time of my next scheduled communication on Monday, December 16, the semester will have concluded, so while I hope to see you at the Holiday Reception or elsewhere on campus over the next couple of weeks, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a fun and relaxing holiday season and all the best for a happy and healthy New Year!

Have a great end to the semester.