End of the Year - Thank You
As we approach the end of this academic year and prepare to graduate a new class of students, I am writing to express my appreciation to our faculty and staff for their continued outstanding work on behalf of the College and our students.
Looking ahead, I hope everyone will find time during the coming summer to enjoy themselves and spend quality time with friends and family. And as the Academic Senate’s Professional Development Committee prepares another great fall FLEX, I hope everyone will take a few moments during the summer to reflect on what we accomplished this past year.
I think of many people who have stepped forward to make a difference for their co-workers and colleagues, those unsung heroes who work every day to make COD a better place for all of us; contributing personal time and energies to bring us together even when we feel pulled apart. These people and their kindnesses supply “heart” to our college—a necessary and valued part of what keeps us together and wanting to come to work each day. I know this was not an easy year. COD asks a lot of you. No matter how much you do, there is always more that needs to be done -- your students want more of your time, the college asks more of you, and it seems there are always fewer resources. And even though our college is very good, there is nothing easy about holding on to students or adding more into our daily work routines. I deeply admire that you have managed to do all those things this year because of your hard work, dedication, and personal commitment.
But we must focus on our collective success with the students we have been privileged to serve. We, together and as members of this great academic community, changed thousands of lives for the better; each and every one of us made a direct difference in people's lives. On May 25th, Friday night we will be reminded of all of this as we witness the transition of our graduates to the next part of their lives. This deserves our celebration!
And so, as I close this chapter of my life and ease into retirement, I want to thank you. Thank each of you for giving your talent and your dedication, and, especially, for making our college a family community although at times, it seemed we were unraveling. It's the support and understanding we provide each other that helps through the long hours, challenging tasks, and the tough days. I thank you sincerely for that.
And I want to thank you for continuing to serve students and coming up with ways to innovate and excel. We keep achieving incredible results, and the reason for that is no secret -– it is the quality of the people who work here. As I look around at this COD community, I feel pride. Gandhi said it best – “be the change you want to see in the world.” – and you exemplify that challenging spirit.
Best wishes to you all, Jerry.
Jerry R. Patton, President
College of the Desert
Palm Desert, CA 92210
760-773-2500 Ofc