Happy Holidays to the NPS Community!
As the holiday season approaches, John and I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for everything you do and for leaning forward in another amazing year!
We navigated unchartered waters in 2021. Your hard work and commitment enabled us to successfully emerge from COVID as we began to return to our wonderful campus this past quarter, restoring the vibrancy of community to our institution. With many challenges in front of us, we adapted remarkably to life and learning socially distanced. We developed new capabilities and prowess that will empower us to move forward with new skills and new prospects.
To the NPS staff, whose quiet presence continued to keep the foundation of our university and its mission consistent and reliable; to the Faculty, whose adaptability under pressure continued to deliver the highest standards of education and research; to our students whose brilliant thinking delivered innovative solutions in theses and capstone projects; to our network of Alumni and supporters for their steadfast support, and to our family and friends whose commitment enabled us to do what we do best -- I thank you all for your inspiring dedication to each other and our NPS community.
This December also marks our 70th anniversary in Monterey. While NPS’ roots go all the way back to 1909 when established as the school of marine engineering at the United States Naval Academy, NPS flourished after moving to the new campus here on the Monterey peninsula. Today, we are poised to write a new chapter in the history of NPS. I am optimistic about the shared vision emerging with Naval leadership for what NPS will become for the defense our nation. There is reason for optimism that 2022 will be a defining year. We should be optimistic about the growing sense of value and recognition for the importance of our vital and distinct education mission - largely based on our improved practices and substantive engagements.
I encourage everyone to take this time to appreciate those who are deployed and in intense operational environments, unable to be home with friends and family.
John and I wish you a safe and happy holiday season – one that fills your homes and hearts with blessings, good health, gratitude and joy.
Ann and John (and Buddy too).