The phrase “back to basics” is one I heard from my coaches every summer during sports camp. Within a training context, it meant returning to foundational skills and translated into countless repetitions of exercises and drills. A more general definition is an adherence to fundamental principles. I am looking forward to the start of campus conversations this fall where, as a community, we will collectively go back to the basics and focus foundationally on these three themes: who we are, how we work, and what we do. By who we are, I mean thinking about our mission at UD and the culture we foster for everyone who is part of the UD community. By how we work, I mean thinking about our efforts moving in a common direction, fueled by trust and respect, and engaged communication. By what we do, I mean thinking about the ways in which we work together to fulfill our mission through integrated plans related to academics, access and affordability, student success, campus facilities and infrastructure, shared governance and service. I find the simplicity that is inherent in “back to basics” to be very powerful; such conversations will be critical for articulating our path forward together as OneUD. In the space and sunshine of the summer, I invite you to start reflecting on how you would respond to who we are, how we work, and what we do.

Here's the latest from around the Beat:

Walking around campus, one can’t miss the new trees that adorn the North and South Greens and the new landscaping going in around Memorial Hall and around the fountain. This initiative was launched by former Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Long before he retired, and I want to give a shout out to the grounds crew to thank them for their nurturing care as these trees take root, providing shade and adding to the beauty of our campus.

Also, it’s impossible to miss the excitement in the air from our newest Blue Hens as they move in clusters out and about on campus during New Student Orientation. There are lots of smiles and photos and a great vibe as they start to see UD as their new home. It makes me look forward to officially welcoming them at the annual Twilight Induction Ceremony — which will feature a tutorial on our alma mater and fight song this year. All faculty and staff are invited to participate in this special event on Monday, Aug. 25, from 7:45 to 8:30 p.m. on the north side of Memorial Hall. Please join us!

The energy of campus also reflects our connections — so many people, so many backgrounds, so many ideas. Beginning in August, Interim Provost Bill Farquhar and I will be hosting a drop-in zoom hour (Zoom-Ins), open to all. We anticipate holding these monthly throughout the academic year. We hope this will serve as an open communication channel for conversation, questions and sharing. More details will be provided closer to the date of the first Zoom-In.

Finally, thinking ahead to our work together, nominations for our next Faculty Athletic Representative are welcome at president@udel.edu. A selection process involving the campus community will commence in late summer/early fall. Professor Carlos Asarta currently serves in this role but will be stepping down upon the selection of a new representative due to other University responsibilities. I want to thank Carlos for his dedication and able service to our student-athletes.