A message from President Houshmand: High stakes and a long view

Dear Friends,

“Only in America” is a phrase I use often when I tell about my life’s greatest successes and privileges. Becoming a citizen many years ago is still one of my proudest moments. I vote in each election out of a sense of duty and gratitude. In a very tangible way, participating in the democratic process is a way to celebrate the privilege of life in this great country.

Now, we are as little as days or maybe as much as weeks away from knowing the outcome of the presidential election. While local and state politics influence our lives substantially, the national contest seems to dominate conversation everywhere. I’m writing today to encourage all of us to keep two things in mind as the results become apparent and we continue living in this extraordinary and complicated place and time.

First: let’s keep the high stakes and hyperbole of the political contests from harming our community. Our personal and professional relationships are too important to lose, whether between students or colleagues. Continue to be respectful of each other. Our diverse perspectives are a key to our strength. Look for common ground and build on it.

Second: take the long view. Whenever the election outcome is clear, it will open the door to new questions about how Rowan University can continue our important work of education, health care and research. What we do together is meant to improve life for countless people for generations. Let’s keep focused on the many days and years after Nov. 3, 2020.

Our country isn’t perfect. It won’t ever be. But this is a precious land with extraordinary people from coast to coast. Just look at our Rowan community, each person intrinsically valuable, with the right to grow and prosper. No matter our decisions on our ballots, let’s also decide to honor each other with the respectful discourse and shared goals that have always been part of who we are.

Very truly yours,

Ali A. Houshmand, Ph.D.
President