May 14, 2021
President Myers thanks university faculty and staff for a job well done
Dear K-State Community:
This week we close the books on a year like no other. It's been a very challenging 12 months filled with uncertainty and change. But at the end of this pandemic year, we stand tall and strong. More than 3,000 degrees will be conferred at commencement ceremonies across our campuses by the end of this weekend. We stayed true to our mission.
Even though we've had hardships and disappointments throughout the year, we have also had many successes. Thank you, each and every one of you, for your dedication, perseverance, and resiliency in rising to the occasion and tackling these challenges. Your efforts and loyalty are the very reason why we are K-State Strong.
As we close the chapter on this semester, we are also looking ahead to what the fall semester will look like. Even though we are not yet over all the hurdles with this pandemic, we do see light at the end of the tunnel. Our positive case counts for COVID-19 are way down compared to the high numbers last fall, our quarantine and isolation counts are way down and we are getting more faculty, staff and students vaccinated. Vaccinations will be key going forward.
There are more bright lights on the horizon. Our state budget seems to have stabilized and enrollment efforts continue to create positive trends. While there is still some uncertainty as to the final budget picture, we are confident that the coming year will be better than last year. Many of us have been personally impacted by the cost reductions we've taken this year. I know it's inadequate to say thank you, but our sacrifices have K-State in a reasonable financial position for having gone through a global pandemic and national economic downturn.
The path back to "normal" operations will have challenges as well as we pivot to more in-person interaction. The lessons learned from the pandemic will stay with us as we chart a course for our collective future. We plan to have additional town halls and communications this summer in preparation for our next academic year. We all know how quickly things can change during a pandemic.
I am proud of our great university and grateful for the tremendous effort put forth by our faculty and staff members during a year of trial. Your agility and flexibility will ensure our future success. Please take pride in how you adapted and for a job well done!
Richard B. Myers
President