October 2023 Message from Dean Mayo
October 26, 2023
As dean of the Graduate School, my concern rests especially with those within our graduate and postdoctoral community who need support at this extraordinarily difficult time.”
Kelly Mayo
Dean of The Graduate School and Associate Provost for Graduate Education
As I write my October monthly message, we are seeing the changing of the seasons manifest on our beautiful campuses. During this transition, I sincerely hope that the Fall Quarter is progressing well for all of you as you pursue your diverse academic interests and advance your graduate or postdoctoral training.
I recognize however, that for many in our community, these last weeks have been extremely difficult and stressful as we agonize over the escalation of violence and unrest in the Middle East. Since my statement on October 12 condemning acts of atrocity, I have heard from a variety of students and faculty, some with ties to Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, and the Palestinian diaspora. They share a common fear for their loved ones, and they desperately want to keep themselves and their families safe. I have also heard from those who are broadly concerned about the expanding conflict in the region and the increasing loss of life. And importantly, I have heard from those who speak out against antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Arab sentiments, and other forms of discrimination. It is especially important to note that acts of violence and oppression often disproportionately affect communities of color and those who are marginalized by society, whose voices are often ignored. I respect and appreciate all these concerns and thank you for sharing them with me. Suffering is universal; it is not exclusive to a single ideology or set of values.
Inherent to Northwestern and institutions of higher learning is the freedom to express varying points of view, and to understand ideologies, policies, and histories outside of our own local and national contexts. We are home to renowned experts on a variety of topics, including the Middle East and related political, sociological, and philosophical subjects. These experts have and should speak out to share their insight and expertise. And many of you among our community of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows are yourselves accomplished scholars with much to contribute to this dialogue. Yet because the conflict is active and ongoing, with deep historical, cultural, and personal implications for so many, we must also recognize the intention, care, and work it will take to have healthy, honest, curious, and respectful discussions, without fear of castigation, in such a painful moment. I hope that The Graduate School and our graduate community can facilitate the kinds of conversations that create greater peace and more compassion in the midst of this conflict.
If you are feeling unsafe or need additional support, please reach out to your friends and colleagues, to me or any TGS staff member, and/or explore these student resources provided by Student Affairs or these faculty, staff, and postdoctoral resources that support your well-being. You might also consider lending your voice to a student group or campus partner aligned with your principles and beliefs as well as participating in upcoming campus events of interest. Please also consider taking moments to “disconnect” by doing things that provide solitude and tranquility.
My thoughts continue to be with the people of the Middle East—Palestinians, Israelis, and everyone impacted by such horrendous and escalating violence. As dean of the Graduate School, my concern rests especially with those within our graduate and postdoctoral community who need support at this extraordinarily difficult time. The loss of life is heartbreaking, and my fervent hope is for a considered and peaceful outcome. Please exercise care and compassion for one another and for yourselves in these difficult times.
Sincerely,
Kelly
Kelly E. Mayo
Walter and Jennie Bayne Professor of Molecular Biosciences
Dean of The Graduate School and
Associate Provost for Graduate Education
Categories: From the Dean