Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, chancellor of UNMC and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, sent the message below to the UNMC community on Aug. 28.
While the start of a new academic year has brought a renewed sense of excitement into our lives, we cannot ignore the fact many in the UNMC community may be struggling as a result of the ongoing events in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the impact of multiple tropical storms and other challenges yet across our nation.
To be sure, these are national, systemic issues that we will not be able to solve on our own. However, each of us has a role, and we can all lead by example and make a difference on our campus by our words and deeds and remembering to file a report online if we witness an act of racism, prejudice, bias or hate.
Between the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather, intense political discourse and our national conversation around racism, these are emotionally trying times for all of us. I encourage you to take time to reflect on your inner strength, reach out if you are in need of assistance and take a few extra minutes to ask others how they are doing. Individuals in need of counseling and psychological resources can find them on the UNMC Wellness page.
As we move forward together, I will ask of you again what I asked of all members of the UNMC community this summer. Look inward. Show strength, resilience, curiosity and independent thinking in our collective journey toward your academic success in the setting of equality and justice. In addition, if you choose to make your voice heard, be safe in speaking your truth.
I remain in awe of the courage and energy put forth by our campus community on this mission driven journey toward a stronger, more equitable community, and thank you for the unyielding love and support you have shown each other in these times.
I would like to compliment Dr Gold on his insightful and inspirational message. My grandmother told me many years ago that "the best way to be a good person is to be a good example". I believe that this is fundamental, as a parent, a partner, a professional and a citizen, and Dr Gold's words convey this message. Self-awareness and self-regulation are key concepts in emotional intelligence and daily living. Individual behaviors I would add to Dr Gold's list are gratitude, passion, perseverance, humility and optimism. Thank you for your exemplary leadership, Dr Gold.
Thank you, Dr. Gold, for modeling your commitment to addressing the tough issues for the campus, especially within the leadership and a reminder of the reporting system that is currently in place.