Dean's Message - December 12, 2022

Dear GSBS Community

The Winter Solstice will be upon us next week. It is no coincidence that many of the world’s religions have a holiday at this time; we all need hope, and the longest night of the year is a time where nature encourages us to pause. Our faith that light will return gives us the strength to take the next step.

My own graduate advisor, Guido Guidotti, who passed last year, used to say that his favorite day was the solstice because it began the process of the days growing longer. It is this kind of hope and patience that Guido taught me, and that has served me well in my career. As scientists, we address the darkness of the unknown and cling onto the glimmer of light that the next experiment might reveal. This is a great attitude to extend beyond science and into life. This holiday season as you enjoy your time with friends, family and loved ones, I wish you hope, light, and the strength to continue your path with faith that light will emerge if you work toward it.

Dan Jay, Dean