Dear colleagues,
Today, my first day at the University of Washington, I am writing to share how honored and thrilled I am to serve as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. I especially want to thank Mark Richards for his service to the UW, and President Cauce and the Executive Office for their support during my transition.
I was initially drawn to this role because of the UW’s global reputation for excellence. In everything that I read and knew anecdotally about the UW, it was clear to me that this excellence in teaching, research and service is driven by a shared commitment to the success of all members of our UW community. This is a value that deeply resonates with me.
Throughout the interview process and the time leading up to my arrival, I have come to appreciate how the academic and professional support structures of the University and the people who define its culture of innovation, collaboration, and encouragement create innumerable paths to this success. I have long believed that we are all elevated by working and learning together, and that this strength will ensure that we continue to define our own bright future and transformational impact in the world. As I now become a part of the fabric of this University, I am both humbled and inspired to partner with you and President Cauce to extend this amazing trajectory together.
My family and I are settling into our new home in northeast Seattle, trying to unpack our boxes as quickly as possible so we can begin to explore the city and the Pacific Northwest — I welcome your suggestions about your favorite spots!
In the coming weeks and months, I look forward to meeting you, listening, learning more about my new academic home, and working together to chart the path to our next phase of collective aspirations.
Wishing you a healthy, restorative, and inspiring remainder of the summer,
Tricia Serio
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
Professor, Biochemistry