Greetings from President Rojann Alpers

Academic Assembly Celebrates 60 years of Shared Governance

Happy New Year!

As we begin the spring semester let me first extend my gratitude and great regard for the grace and graciousness in which the Academic Assembly faced the challenges of 2009.  Your willingness to step up and step out on behalf of the university and especially our staff and students was extraordinary and reflected a sense of honor and integrity that is unparalleled!   2010 no doubt, will bring its own challenges, but I have every confidence we will face whatever comes our way with the same commitment, steadfastness and dedication.

But challenges are not all that the future holds for us.  This year begins our 61^st year of shared governance at Arizona State University—and is cause to celebrate.  1949 was the year the Faculty Council was formed and approved by the Arizona Board of Regents—while it has been my understanding, that faculty at ASU have long been willing to share their issues, concerns and suggestions with administration; 1949 marked the year we legitimized our voice and venue for that sharing.   I would hope that this Diamond Anniversary would highlight the essentiality and vitality of genuine shared governance—which means we all must refuse apathy and indifference and instead, choose involvement, engagement, participation, and unity.  I recently received a wonderfully bright, colorful and garish coffee mug that simply says…Best Year Yet!    This is my New Year’s Wish for us all!

Have a wonderful semester, please let me know how I and the University Academic Council may best serve you and let’s make this OUR Best Year Yet!