Dear CHSS Class of 2020,<\/p>\n
Way back, seemingly a long, long time ago, we started the spring semester bustling around campus, sitting in classes and looking forward to this day when you could stand proudly while your friends and family and we, your faculty and staff and the Deans Office, could join in celebrating your achievements.\u00a0 We have heard from many of you and know that the fact that we are at home in lockdown instead is deeply disappointing.\u00a0 We too are mourning the loss of this chance to enjoy a day dedicated to recognizing you.\u00a0 As a new Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, I was particularly excited about this day.\u00a0 But, alas, we are at home.<\/p>\n
As disappointing as it is, I want to remind you that this is one day on a long path and the path is the important thing, not the day.\u00a0 We shouldn\u2019t lose sight of that.\u00a0 \u00a0I want to share an experience from my life.\u00a0 I met my wife 31 years ago and have been very happily married for 30 years as of next month.\u00a0 But, our wedding day didn\u2019t quite fit the storybook wedding.\u00a0 Between in-laws arguing and rain in the beautiful garden of our outdoor wedding, it doesn\u2019t rank amongst my wife and my favorite days.\u00a0 But, it was one day on a long road with many happy memories since.<\/p>\n
Similarly, you have come to MSU to get an education and we have taught you, developed some very important skills, and offered you a wide array of experiences.\u00a0 Most importantly, we\u2019ve worked to help you become life-long learners so that you can create the most rewarding, meaningful and successful lives and careers possible, whatever that may mean to you.\u00a0 Graduation is a day on your path of development and exploration and that path is what matters most.<\/p>\n
Reaching this point with your degree in hand \u2013 especially in the midst of a pandemic and lockdown — is a great testament to your will, perseverance and talent.\u00a0 We are so proud of you and your achievements at MSU.\u00a0 On behalf of the College and the Dean\u2019s Office, I wanted to wish you congratulations on reaching this day.\u00a0 As you go forward, please do stay in touch with us \u2013 whether it\u2019s your department or a favorite faculty or staff member, or even the Dean\u2019s Office.\u00a0 We want to hear about the adventures you\u2019re about to set out on.<\/p>\n
As soon as it\u2019s possible to make firm plans, President Cole will announce how we will be able to celebrate graduation in person.\u00a0 For now, all my best to you and your proud families.<\/p>\n
Peter Kingstone
\nDean, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
\nMontclair State University<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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