UI Foundation/UI Advancement Weekly Update 03.26.21
Dear Team:
When I emailed you last Friday, the Fighting Illini men's basketball team was about to tip off against Drexel in a first-round matchup in the NCAA Tournament. Those of us who follow college basketball were filled with hope and excitement, which was fueled even further by the "everyday guys" impressive victory over the Drexel Dragons.
As I am sure you probably know, the team's promising run in the tournament was cut short by a stinging defeat to the Loyola Ramblers. No matter how disappointing this loss was, I hope our entire University of Illinois community can take a moment to recognize that it was a truly memorable season and we should be proud of their accomplishments. Additionally, for the basketball fans among us, the return of March Madness has been a welcomed and entertaining diversion from the daily grind of pandemic life.
Coaches and athletes may understand this better than anyone: the margin between success and failure can sometimes be razor thin. Like the Illini, even the most talented can have a day when things may not go exactly as expected. When it turns out not to be our team's day, we should be as supportive of them in defeat, as much or more than we do when they stand as champions.
I believe we can draw parallels to this in our COVID work life. There may be days or weeks when everything is clicking and on track, but, suddenly a day may come when your mettle is tested. In trying times, I believe that if you lean on your colleagues, focus on the positive, and look to the future, you will find yourself rising to the challenge for an even better tomorrow.
The good news for all of us (whether sports fans or not) is we are getting through the pandemic together, and we will continue to support one another in good and not so good times. Hang in there and lend your hand when the occasion warrants it.
Have a great weekend!
Jim
PS: A point of pride for all of us: Our UI Health enterprise has administered more than 67,000 vaccinations thus far.