'The status quo is no longer viable:' Elaine Maimon

Dear Members of the GSU Community,

The past week has been traumatic for our nation, our state, and our university. All at once we are confronting a horrible confluence of disease, injustice, and fury. Dean Corey Williams wrote to you on Friday to communicate Governors State University’s collective mourning of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. Dean Williams pointed out that this death is “jarring, heartbreaking, and yet unfortunately all too familiar” and that “the GSU community stands together in solidarity against racism and hate.” He reminded the community of GSU’s counselling resources (studentcounseling@govst.edu). Please remember that no one at GSU is alone in dealing with the current devastating circumstances.

We share a sense of outrage. We have studied the history of systemic unfairness, and we understand that the status quo is no longer viable. Let’s find ways to build a transformed society.

We at GSU are committed to establishing equity and community through enlightened higher education. The University has established a legacy of ground-breaking research in health disparities, restorative justice, and social change. Together we will continue that work.

Rather than being overwhelmed by sorrow, let’s remember that we, individually and collectively, can play an important role in building a healthier and more just society. At every Commencement, I say to GSU graduates, “Make us proud. Make us better. Make a difference.” Let’s make a pledge to finding constructive, non-violent ways to fulfill that charge.

Sincerely,

Elaine P. Maimon, Ph.D.

President