The beginning of a new year and a new quarter is an opportune time to recommit to our shared mission of learning, discovery and public service. This mission is fueled by you, our dedicated staff, students, faculty and healthcare providers.
The breadth and depth of what, together, you contribute to our Washington communities and the world beyond is truly astounding. University of Washington researchers across every discipline published important and often ground-breaking research that expanded humanity’s understanding of subjects ranging from the subatomic behavior of materials to the impact of shipping noise on the lives of beluga whales to live-saving medical breakthroughs. UW students in Bothell, Seattle, Tacoma and Spokane are exploring the rapidly expanding frontiers of AI, discovering new opportunities in the marketplace, and preparing to become healthcare providers, including in some of our state’s most underserved communities.
Throughout last year, in communities throughout our state – from the U District to tribal and First Nations communities along the Salish Sea – Huskies have engaged with the world to generate impact at a phenomenal scale. We also saw the story of our very own Boys in the Boat told on the big screen, and watched our student-athletes defy the naysayers to dominate on the gridiron. It was a year for the record books, and the video below is just a small sample of the sights, sounds and experiences that defined last year – I know that 2024 will prove to be just as dynamic and rewarding as it unfolds.
At a moment when the world is facing grave issues and profound challenges – some of which have touched our University community – I remain hopeful thanks to the optimism, selflessness and determination that I see everyday across our campuses and in our communities. Without a doubt, big challenges remain, but I know that we will rise to them as one, finding our swing, pulling together.