Welcome From Chancellor Gabel

Dear Pitt students, faculty and staff,

The beginning of the fall semester is always a special and exciting time of year. Around each bend and every corner is so much to anticipate — from what we will learn and discover about ourselves and the world around us, to whom our students will meet and engage with to not only shape this important chapter in their lives but walk with them in the years ahead.

As the first week concludes, I’m writing to extend a special welcome home to all new and returning members of our Pitt family. I’ve enjoyed meeting so many of you during a range of welcome back events, from move-in to convocation, Lantern Night and the bonfire last night. I’ve enjoyed engaging with many members of our record-breaking incoming first-year class — the most talented, ethnically diverse, and global in our history.

As a new member of the Pitt family, I want to thank all of you who shared feedback and responses to our July kickoff survey. I’ve read each of your messages. You have described how much you value our teaching, research and service mission and how you expect meaningful impact in our community. I’ve also heard your voice on our challenges, but true to form, that feedback was universally constructive. Collectively, you have reinforced just how great this institution is — and how much it is anchored by the balance between tradition and innovation; by Pittsburgh and engagement with the opportunities this city offers; and by world-class scholarship, creativity, care and learning. And, most especially, you have reinforced for me how this institution is anchored by our people — and how dedicated each of you are to our mission and to each other. I am honored to be part of such an exceptional and talented community.

In that spirit, we recognize the dedication each member of our Pitt community has to the safety and security of every member of our Pitt community. This dedication is even more important given tragic events at Alabama A&M and the University of North Carolina and in the community near Edward Waters University in Florida. Our community feels the collective weight of these events, and we extend our shared grief and condolences to our friends and colleagues on those campuses. The safety of the entire University community is our top priority, and I encourage you to learn more about our safety preparedness.

As we take our next steps, I want to extend my best wishes. Be bold and be inspired, and I look forward to seeing you around our campuses.

Hail to Pitt!

With warm regards,

Joan Gabel
Chancellor