Over the past three months, I have been excited to learn from many of you about the aspects that make our department special. From research and mentorship to patient care, we excel in so many areas and have much to celebrate, including recent honors, grants, and awards recognizing the exceptional accomplishments and talent that all of you represent. I encourage you to continue sharing your successes with me.

We are all aware of the many strengths of our department. We also recognize that effective communication is key to our ongoing improvement. During our last faculty meeting, I welcomed discussion on how we can maintain and further strengthen our department and its community. As we expand our programs, initiatives, and services, I hope to create a platform where everyone has a voice, including junior and senior faculty, staff, administrators, and trainees. We also need to include our patients, our neighbors, and the broader community around our institutions. By listening to and understanding these perspectives, we can collectively work toward a shared vision for our department's future.

I wish you all happy holidays and look forward to more conversations in the new year.