Dear WSU Pullman faculty and staff,

At this time of year, many of us take the opportunity to take stock of all that we are thankful for and give thanks to those around us. I’m writing today to express my deep appreciation for all of you. We’ve all had an intensely challenging few years as we’ve experienced the most critical public health crisis — and resulting social and economic upheaval — in our lifetimes. Since I arrived at WSU in 2020, we’ve also navigated critically important but challenging organizational changes, as we’ve worked together to grow stronger as a system and forge an identity and leadership structure for WSU Pullman. WSU’s success in these efforts is thanks to all of you.

As we come toward the end of Native American Heritage Month, I also want to express my deep respect for and gratitude towards the tribal nations and confederacies who are the original and current caretakers of our region. If you are not already familiar with it, please see WSU’s land acknowledgement.

Finally, I want to acknowledge the great loss and anxiety that we are all feeling as a result of the violent murders of four U of I students last week. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the victims and to the entire Vandal community. I know that this has taken an enormous emotional toll on the WSU Pullman community as well. It is my hope that you are all able to take some time over the next week to take a break, to find beauty, and connect with those you love.

I am grateful for you all.

With thanks,
Elizabeth

Elizabeth S. Chilton
WSU Pullman Chancellor
Provost and Executive Vice President