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Dear School of Art Friends: 

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I am happy to be writing to you at the beginning of a new academic year. I would like to start by sharing some personal news. Beginning September 1, 2021, I will be shifting responsibilities as I become the new Associate Dean for the College of the Arts. I share this news with mixed emotions. While I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, I am saddened at the thought of leaving the School of Art. I am; however, leaving the School in good hands, as our new Dean, Dr. Petrella, is working to appoint an Interim Director. She has a plan of launching a national search for a new permanent Director to take the helm in 2022. I am extremely happy that I still get to work with all of our wonderful colleagues and students. 

I hope this fall semester brings you healing and optimism after a long and challenging year. The simple act of seeing friends and family again have lifted my spirits and I hope you are able to recall happy moments that have helped push you through the pandemic, including moments in the School of Art. I applaud all our students, staff, and faculty for facing extreme challenges who persevered through it all. 

Despite these challenges, it was a banner year for the School of Art with notable successes in research for students and faculty alike. As a School, we also developed a scholarship for underrepresented students who are in need of this assistance. 

We have 58 new incoming students this fall semester with 15 new transfer students. I know we all welcome them to their new school, new campus, and what will be their new home. I also know you will help them find treasures along the way with the connections you provide for them. 

To our community of students, staff, faculty, alumni, donors, and friends I want to thank you all for your amazing efforts over this past year despite the obstacles that you faced in your personal and professional lives. While I certainly wish that the past year wasn't as challenging, seeing how everyone rallied to face the reality has been truly inspirational.

All my best,

Marie Bukowski

Director & Professor