January 2, 2024

Dear UD Community,

Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed the holiday break and are ready to embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead in 2024.

As members of the UD community, we are all constantly inspired by the talent and energy surrounding us — from national recognition of our students and faculty, to significant growth in the reach and impact of UD research, to new campus spaces that enable enhanced learning, discovery and interdisciplinary scholarship. Special moments from 2023 are captured in this video and this UDaily story.

Looking forward to 2024 and beyond, it is clear that this energy will only continue to become more powerful. This year marks the beginning of UD’s second century of pioneering work in global education. Our campus is poised for even greater growth with collaborative spark and enlightening creativity. Among other exciting developments, we are looking forward to the opening of Building X, offering a dynamic environment for students and faculty to explore and advance knowledge of human disease, neuroscience and human behavior, and quantum science and engineering. The new year will also present countless opportunities for living and working sustainably in our vibrant ecosystem, as well as deep and meaningful engagement with new ways to help solve challenges around the world.

As we do so, we will demonstrate, in our many interactions with each other, the importance of pairing open minds and creative perspectives with civility and respect. Our culture is enriched through the connections among our personal journeys and shared experiences, embracing every opportunity to prepare our students to succeed in modern society and elevating the impact of Blue Hens, near and far.

Looking ahead, I know that this impact will only continue. With much to be proud of and inspired by, my wife, Eleni, and I wish you great health and happiness in 2024 and beyond.

Sincerely,

Dennis Assanis President