Dear School of Social Work community,
Happy new year to all! I hope the recent break provided a chance for rest and rejuvenation. As we step into this new year, I'm compelled to emphasize the importance of mindful responses over resolutions in shaping our journey ahead. Let's prioritize moments of pause, allowing ourselves the opportunity to breathe deeply, reflect, and approach our work thoughtfully and well-rested. This commitment is personal for me, and I hope it resonates with all of you as we start a new year.
This message marks the beginning of a series that will appear monthly in the SSW Elm weekly newsletter. Since its launch last fall, this newsletter has proven indispensable for disseminating information and community news within our School of Social Work. Moving forward, the SSW Elm weekly will showcase contributions related to Human Resources, DEI, Research, and more. It will also spotlight the invaluable units within our school.
Save the dates for two pivotal events: our all-school meeting scheduled for June 5, an occasion for collective dialogue and shared vision, and an all-school picnic on August 14, setting the tone for a vibrant new academic year.
This Fall, groundbreaking begins on our new SSW headquarters. I encourage you to participate in the survey regarding the new building, which will be available until Jan. 31. Throughout the design process, we will seek volunteers to provide feedback on four critical areas: specialty spaces (such as a prayer room, lactation rooms, bike storage and showers); faculty and staff spaces; student spaces; and all-access spaces. Learn more about these opportunities by completing the survey. Additionally, I encourage everyone to attend the SSW building town hall on Jan 31 at 1:00 pm in the SSW auditorium. This town hall is an important opportunity to ask questions and learn more about our new SSW building as we approach the groundbreaking phase.
As we continue to transform and strengthen our school’s operations, several key searches are underway for positions including an Associate Dean for External Affairs, Associate Dean for Administration and Finance, Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications, and Executive Director of the Institute. Stay tuned for information on these searches and how you can be involved. I am also excited about the pivotal roles our students play as the next generation of changemakers. Together, we will foster an environment where ideas flourish and actions resonate far beyond our immediate spheres.
As we start this Spring semester, let us maintain our commitment to kindness and grace, both for ourselves and each other. Remember, my door is always open for discussion and support.
With eager anticipation for the year ahead,
Judy L. Postmus, PhD, ACSW
Dean, University of Maryland School of Social Work