Labor Day
Dear Colleagues:
While we look forward to this three-day weekend celebrating Labor Day, I hope we all
remember to take some time to reflect on the history and rationale behind this holiday.
The origin of the Labor Day observance harkens back to a time of 12-hour workdays,
seven-day workweeks, and mistreatment of the workforce that included unsafe working
conditions and extensive child labor. Changes brought about specifically by the labor
forces of our nation have led to major shifts in working conditions, but we often
forget to acknowledge the critical importance and actual labor of all those who keep
our country and our campus moving forward. The only way we can serve all of our students
is through the collective community efforts that define 51³Ô¹Ï.
I want to take this moment to thank all of our Farmingdale staff, faculty, and administrators
who spend so much time and energy making sure we work on a beautiful and safe campus
and that our students receive the best possible education and college experience.
We all benefit from the fruits of your labors, and it is appreciated.
Enjoy and please stay safe over this long weekend.
Robert S. Prezant, PhD
President
Professor of Biology
