As many of you know, I have recently curtailed my public schedule in order to address significant back and hip pain. The pain was originally thought to be cysts that have now been treated, thanks to the great team at SIH. With their help, I am feeling much better.
However, as often happens in these cases, I have more treatments ahead to address the cause of the cysts, which has now been identified as cancer. I won’t go into more detail here other than to say we are treating it aggressively and I am confident that I will be around for a long time.
While I may not be as visible in the weeks ahead, I will remain fully engaged as your chancellor and will remain focused on advancing our institution. We are on the right track. During the past year, we have built a strong management team who will step up when called upon during this time.
I assure you that all of our work revitalizing the university continues. Earlier this year, Provost Meera Komarraju and her office assumed full responsibility for facilitating academic reorganization. I am grateful for her leadership and for the work of our faculty.
Health is an intensely personal matter for all of us, and I felt it was important to be transparent with you, our new extended family, regarding this matter. My family and I appreciate the support of our many friends and colleagues here in Carbondale, and around the world.
Thank you for your support and for all you do for this great university. I look forward to celebrating our many future successes with you.