Dear USD Community,

In his Lenten message to the world, Pope Francis encouraged all of us to “journey together in hope.” Even in the face of rapid upheaval and uncertainty in our world, Pope Francis reminds us how important it is to remain hopeful about the future.

It is also more important than ever that we hold true to our values as a university community. Some of our values are ubiquitous with those found at other institutions of higher education. We recognize that free inquiry and academic freedom are foundational components of any academic enterprise and must be vigorously defended. We also share the belief that higher education exists to promote the common good and democratic engagement, and by rigorously pursuing the truth we play an important role in the advancement of knowledge.

But our Catholic identity means we have an even higher calling. Together, we inspire our students to be compassionate servant-leaders who respect the dignity of every human. When combined with our work as an anchor institution, we have an impact on our community and the world, working together to build hope in a brighter future.

Our new strategic plan helps guide us in this effort. Lighting the Way to 2030, developed with extensive community participation and input over the course of the 75th anniversary year, reinforces our promise to prepare the next generation of leaders, thinkers and Changemakers to address the challenges of our time. In caring for our community, the plan makes clear our commitment to strengthen and create programs, experiences and resources available to all members of our community and ensure they are able to thrive in every dimension of their lives.

This includes investing in wellness initiatives that renew our minds, bodies and spirits. For example, on Tuesday we will dedicate the Palomar Health Student Wellness Center and celebrate this incredible resource on our campus (and I hope you will join in the festivities). But of course, our commitment to wellness goes beyond this beautiful building, encouraging all of us - students, faculty and staff - to build community with each other and seek the resources we need to be our best selves.

As we celebrate Holy Week, the Triduum leading up to Easter and Passover, I am especially grateful for the community of scholars and learners we have at USD and pray that, together, we continue our journey to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and hopeful world.

Because USD begins with us.

Wishing you a wonderful and blessed Easter break.

Peace,

James T. Harris III, DEd
President