August 18, 2025

Dear William Paterson Faculty and Staff,

I hope you all enjoyed your final summer Friday off, as today marks our return to a normal, five-day work week. While summer gets busier every year, the fact that our students are away from campus provides an important opportunity to invest some extra time in both our personal and professional lives. We are fortunate that this comes in the forms of extra time away from work with family and friends, as well as the wonderful, award-winning Learning and Development Summer Program. This year’s program brought the campus together for workshops that inspired, informed, and connected us. From lifesaving CPR & Narcan training to AI tools for work and life, and from Excel shortcuts to leadership breakthroughs, the sessions were packed with practical skills and fresh perspectives. 

Through this year’s theme, "U (You) Lead – Everyday Leadership at WP", we leveled up our collaboration, leadership, and communication skills through research-based strategies and practical tools to drive change and lead with authenticity and impact. As your feedback clearly indicated, this program went beyond professional development to become a true exercise in building community. 

I want to thank everyone who participated for bringing your curiosity and eagerness to learn, even first thing in the morning. A very special thanks goes to our many colleague presenters, who shared their expertise with us in interactive, enlightening, and engaging sessions. And, finally, thanks to Vice President Allison Boucher-Jarvis and her HR team, especially Director of Talent Acquisition/Employee Learning & Development Caitlyn O’Loughlin, for presenting another productive series, as well as to the Catering, IT, and Facilities teams for supporting the sessions.

I’m sure everyone is eager to put the new insights, fresh perspectives, and new and stronger connections to work in support of our students when the Fall 2025 semester kicks off next week at Welcome Day, on Tuesday, August 26. I look forward to seeing you there!