Moving Forward Together
A Year of Purpose and Progress
At the start of this academic year, I emphasized that we would continue to move forward despite the uncertainties facing higher education—and we have.
Over the course of the year, we addressed real challenges: evolving policy conditions, increased expectations for measurable outcomes, financial pressures, and new demands on our teaching and research. In response, we began building stronger foundations—establishing clearer program-level goals, improving how we assess our work, and aligning more closely with the university’s strategic direction.
Strengthening Our Academic Community
We also strengthened our scholarly enterprise through our labs, collabs, working groups, campus and external collaborations, and internal funding programs, while continuing to ask and answer a guiding question: what difference does it make that we are here together as a school?
One answer was evident at convocation. As we celebrated our graduates, we were reminded of the value of Rutgers as a public university—one that includes, engages, and propels individuals toward excellence and social mobility. Another answer was evident in a successful year of faculty promotions and continued academic achievement across the school.
Our Mission in Action
At SC&I, we are committed to advancing knowledge and practice in communication, information, and media—three forces that shape how people understand the world and engage with one another. Through this work, we advance understanding of these forces and promote relevant, justifiable innovation. Through this work, we prepare students not only for careers, but for meaningful participation in society.
That work is grounded in three enduring commitments:
- the freedom of speech, through the ability to engage thoughtfully in difficult conversations
- the freedom of information, through making knowledge accessible and usable
- the freedom of the press, through the pursuit and communication of truth
Together, these principles define the impact we make as a school and as a community.
Operational Progress and Innovation
We also made important operational progress this year, including launching a new website, strengthening our internal systems, and thoughtfully integrating new technologies into our teaching and administrative work.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Most importantly, this progress reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students. I am deeply grateful for your work and commitment throughout the year.
As we transition to new leadership, I am confident in the school’s direction. We have strengthened our foundations, clarified our purpose, and positioned SC&I for continued progress.
The future of SC&I is in good hands.
