Maine Memo — Giving thanks for our communities

Dear University of Maine and University of Maine at Machias communities,

As we take a brief break this week from working and learning together, I want to thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for the well-being of our communities. As we watch climbing numbers of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Maine, our thoughts are with all who are struggling with pandemic-related illness and all of its devastating effects.

Some will celebrate Thanksgiving Day in a variety of ways that include a focus on giving, gratitude, service, family and friends, and food. This also is an important time for reflection on the meaning and history of this holiday from the perspective of Indigenous people. However you use this time, I do hope it provides you with a meaningful opportunity to refresh and to be with those you care about.

I look forward to our return next Monday for the final weeks of the fall 2021 semester. Thank you for getting vaccinated, for wearing face coverings and for taking part in regular COVID testing. It has made a difference at our universities. This semester break, in a pandemic that is now woven into our daily lives, I am grateful for our collective commitment to community and to keeping one another safe so that we can keep learning going.

All the best,

Joan Ferrini-Mundy
President