UI Foundation/UI Advancement Weekly Update 12.23.21

Dear Team:

When my family moved to Illinois from Arizona, one of the things they were excited to experience was a winter holiday that included snow-covered trees to accompany our festive lights and holiday spirit. Although the weather forecasters say those of us in the Champaign-Urbana area will not be experiencing a winter wonderland this weekend, there is at least one holiday tradition that we all will experience during this most wonderful time of the year. And that is a break away from the office. The hope of a year that would bring us closer to “normal” is probably best described as a rollercoaster ride. Despite the twists and turns, ups and downs, we’ve all survived and now you deserve some celebration, rest, and relaxation.

Over the next few weeks, I urge you to celebrate with family and friends, but do so by being mindful of the reality that we are still managing our way through this pandemic. The highs and lows of the virus seem to be ramping up again, but science tells us if we take the suggested precautions, we can celebrate with the family we weren’t able to a year ago.

I appreciate your extraordinary work over the past 12 months, whether at home or in your university/Foundation office. As we get ready to launch the new year, let’s do so with enthusiasm and excitement for giving our donors and each other our best efforts.

The next time you hear from me, it will be 2022. With a bit of luck and continued faith and trust in science and technology, perhaps we will be able to spend more in-person time in the New Year. Until then, I wish you and your family an enjoyable and safe holiday season filled with great memories (and lots of rest).

Cheers,

Jim

P.S. - If you feel so inclined, share a holiday story or new year’s resolution with us, and we’ll publish them on UIF Online in January.