2020: A year to pause and reflect

Happy Holidays

Each year at this time I reflect on the major milestones and accomplishments of the Alberta School of Business, and I remain tremendously proud of the work we continue to achieve together.

Before I reflect on the positive accomplishments we achieved as a school this year, I would be remiss to not acknowledge that 2020 was a difficult year for us all. We began the year with heavy hearts as we mourned the loss of Elnaz Nabiyi, nine other members of the University of Alberta community, as well as three additional family members who all tragically lost their lives on Flight PS752. Elnaz was an extremely talented PhD candidate in our own Department of Accounting, Operations and Information Systems, and her loss has affected all of us within the School of Business. Her love for her friends and family, her dedication to her research and in making the world a better place, as well as her big smile, will remain with us forever.

Although our lives have been and continue to be disrupted by the impacts of COVID-19, we remain hopeful for a brighter new year. It’s been a difficult year of transition and challenges, but my commitment to the safety of the students, staff, faculty and Alberta School of Business community remains top of mind. As we move into the holiday season, please be sure to rest and care for yourself and those around you, as long as it is safe to do so. I would also like to remind anyone who may be feeling overwhelmed that it is always ok to ask for help. Reach out to a friend, colleague or your supervisor, or access the mental health supports available to you. We are all in this together.

In this moment of adversity, the Alberta School of Business continues to persevere, and I want to commend you all for your demonstrations of resilience, leadership and support. Thank you. I know your compassion and hard work will continue to lead the way as we head into a new year.

Some key 2020 accomplishments:

Together we faced a number of unprecedented challenges and upsets, and yet we continue to persevere and find ways to support each other. This is the very definition of family, and I am proud to be a member of the School of Business family alongside you. To all of our students, staff, faculty and alumni, may your holiday season be filled with rest and joy. I look forward to sharing a brighter new year with you all.

Please stay safe, be well and take care.

Sincerely,

Joe Signature

Dean Joseph Doucet