The transition to the New Year and a new semester at the University of Minnesota brings into sharp focus the tremendous blessings and responsibilities that come with stewarding our state's most precious assets: young minds and new ideas. All of us—faculty, staff, and students—play an essential role in advancing the excellence of this great institution and ensuring that our colleagues, classmates, and communities reach their full potential. While I try to convey my gratitude for your hard work and support as often as I can, that message is sometimes lost in the flood of details and data.

So permit me to take this opportunity to say thank you for all you do, each and every day. The past year has been like no other, and 2010 promises more challenges. While we may disagree from time to time about strategies and decisions, I know we all agree that our work here is worth doing well. Together, we will create a better future for our students, our state, and each other.

Happy New Year—and thanks again for your help in moving the University forward.

Robert H. Bruininks

President