Perspective and Optimism
Dear Colleagues:
In my very first comments at 51łÔąĎ, I believe at convocation,
I noted “what an amazing time it is to be part of higher education.” That is certainly
the case. Over the past year, we’ve seen important new curriculum evolve, achieved
strong recognition of our teaching and scholarship, facilitated the creation of new
support programs, and enhanced external recognition. Still, we are being challenged
by external forces in ways that we couldn’t have imagined last summer, as we embarked
on our first semester together. It is more than enough to push anyone toward pessimism.
I write this while buckled in at 32,000 feet on my way to an important meeting in
California. I am seated next to a gentleman who immigrated to this country at age
14 from South Africa and earns his living in the security business. He has, in his
words, lived the American dream. In our conversation, we shared some differences in
our political views and yet we had an enjoyable and civil discussion, acknowledging
our differences in opinions, applauding our common ground, shaking hands, and departing
as (air travel) friends.
I wanted to send this message to again share my mindset that together we can accomplish
our collective goals, and to remind us how important it is to regularly incorporate
perspective in our lives. As a rule of thumb, we are told to avoid politics and religion
at family gatherings, and that is likely good advice. But it is also important to
engage in conversations with individuals of a different mindset, and to do so while
respecting other’s views and rationale. We might even discover points of agreement,
but minimally we can learn. I found myself in agreement with my airline seat partner
that, despite a seemingly growing level of national pessimism, there is still an essential
place for optimism.
My optimism, like yours, is embedded in our students, and in our soon-to-be graduates
who hold a strong work ethic, and a focus grounded in their own aspirations and dreams.
In my first year at FSC I’ve met with students who are struggling as they balance
school, home life, and jobs, while seeking to earn their degrees and continue on their
life’s journey. I’ve also seen our faculty and staff focus their mindset on how to
help these students achieve their dreams, and how to guide them to what comes next.
With this knowledge and insight, I can’t help but be hopeful.
I have no doubt we’ll see more challenges and changes during the summer months, and
we will evaluate these as they come and in concert with our SUNY System. Always remember,
our strength and our fortitude reside in our community, a community with an eye on
tomorrow and on our students. Retaining perspective and optimism can help mold the
best education and world for our students. I wish you all a revitalizing, enjoyable,
and productive summer. I know you’ll come back with new and creative ideas to support
our students and to move Farmingdale ever forward.
Robert S. Prezant, PhD
President
Professor of Biology
