Dear members of the UCCS community,

Each year, as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, I find myself reflecting on all that I have to be grateful for.

This year, more than ever, the answers are simple — but they are no less meaningful.

I’m grateful that we are living, learning, teaching and working in person this semester. I’m grateful for the continued commitment of our campus to health and safety, which has allowed us to do so. I’m grateful for the incredible students, faculty, staff and alumni who make up our Mountain Lion community. And, after an extraordinarily busy semester, I’m grateful that we can all take a much-needed break.

As you saw in our holiday leave announcement, there will be no classes beginning this Wednesday, Nov. 24, and offices will close Thursday and Friday, Nov. 25–26. I hope you can take this time to reflect, enjoy time with friends and family, and take a deep breath. You have earned it. 

Wishing you a peaceful holiday, and all the best to you and your loved ones.

Respectfully,

Venkat Reddy
UCCS Chancellor