A Holiday Message from President Riley

By Office of the President | Dec 3, 2024

Dear Downstate Family,

As the year winds down, I reflect on the moments that have defined us as a community. Amid a year of challenges, celebrating successes and growth, we have continued to uphold the values that make Downstate an institution of learning and a home for care, inspiration, and collaboration.

The holiday season is a time for connection and reflection; it uniquely holds meaning for each of us. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Kwanzaa, or Chanukkah or cherish the opportunity to be with those you love, this season honors traditions with family, friends, and loved ones.

Kwanzaa, Christmas, and Chanukah each carry profound messages that, though rooted in distinct traditions, converge in their celebration of light, love, and the enduring strength of community. Christmas calls us to embrace hope, generosity, and the boundless joy of giving, inspiring us to extend kindness to those around us. Chanukah teaches resilience and faith, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and the enduring power of miracles. Kwanzaa uplifts principles of unity, purpose, and collective work, reminding us of the importance of building strong bonds and supporting one another.

These celebrations highlight our shared humanity and the universal desire for peace and joy. Recognizing these values, we transcend differences and affirm our commitment to a brighter, more harmonious future. In this season, we find that no matter our paths, we all seek connection, compassion, and a better tomorrow.

As we welcome 2025, I encourage you to reflect on your 2024 journey, celebrate the triumphs, however big or small, and embrace the lessons learned. These moments of growth and connection truly define our shared experience at Downstate.

I am grateful for the people who support and inspire us, the opportunities that enrich our lives, and the surrounding community. To our students, faculty, and staff, thank you for your commitment to excellence in all you do.

I hope and anticipate that the new year will innovate, inspire, and positively impact us all—the bonds we build and the values we share will carry us forward to better and brighter days.

I wish each of you peace, joy, and a sense of renewal this holiday season. May your days be filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of family and friends. And may the new year bring health, success, and opportunities to create lasting memories.