Dear Jaguar Family,
Simply stated, I am delighted to join the Governors State University family as your sixth president. And, as a native Chicagoan, it feels good to be home again!
My excitement is tempered, however, by the sobering times in which we find ourselves. I must acknowledge that we are starting our journey together under most unusual circumstances. A global pandemic required you to hold classes off campus during a time when you should have been embracing achievements and celebrations. We continue to explore new ways to deliver high quality education at a time when our students need it most. Finally, historic demands for social justice are calling for us to examine ourselves, and to do our part in creating a more just and equitable society.
These major challenges require big ideas and strategic moves. Educational institutions everywhere are being tested in many ways. Yet, I am undaunted. This is who we are as a university—resilient and innovative and ready to face adversity.
When I consider Governors State University’s many transformations since 1969, I see clearly that our possibilities to advance our mission are endless. Each struggle has strengthened our resolve and our global charge to change lives and the world through exceptional and accessible educational opportunities.
Governors State University remains a vibrant gem set in the southern region of Chicago’s greater metropolitan area. Our distinguished faculty and staff, along with our dedicated students, will continue to cultivate a well-prepared workforce and a deep commitment to our external community.
I am grateful to each of you for your hard work, especially during the spring semester when the entire campus community pulled together for a strong finish to the academic year.
Finally, I would like to thank my predecessor, Dr. Elaine P. Maimon, for her dedication and service to Governors State University over the last 13 years. Her vision for the university has positioned us to move forward in a purposeful way.
I can’t wait to meet each of you in person or virtually over the coming weeks and months, and to serve this tremendous institution with pride and honor.
Let’s go Jaguars!
Dr. Cheryl Green
President, Governors State University
