Sunday, September 23, 2012

The lessons of Convocation

Last Friday, the UM School of Information (UMSI) held its first ever Convocation.  I didn't know what to expect... there was tons of work to do at the office, emails to finish before the weekend, and a busy week ahead.  But as part of my position, as part of the UMSI team, and as an alumni, I attended the event.

I'd almost never been so proud to be a part of this School.  The theme of Convocation, "i Will Change the World," perfectly explained where UMSI has been and where it's going.  We heard from the Dean, Jeff Mackie-Mason, associate deans, faculty new and old, and a student.  We learned about the work of MSI's and doctoral students, professors, and school initiatives.  We heard exciting news about projects that literally are changing the world through connecting people and information via technology.

The Convocation confirmed - once again - that UMSI is an incredibly special place.  It's a growing school, Information is an expanding field, and this work can, does and will improve the lives of people.  Convocation spoke to me about what is important in my new position -- being part of this team and celebrating the work we do, and looking forward.  And that meant that the email left in the office was put off for a couple of hours, but reminded me that if students, faculty and staff come together to learn about our collective work we can only do it better --- for the good of others.  Cheers to UMSI and all that comes next!

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