As we reach July, the time has come for the official changing of the guard. For my last note as the director of IDSS, I want to share two things: my gratitude, and a look at what we have accomplished so far.

 

First: my deepest thanks to the many people who have worked tirelessly to sustain and grow IDSS. Creating something new within an existing structure asks people to weather big changes, and success depends on our commitment to a shared vision. IDSS would not be what it is today if not for a community of talented and dedicated people who took advantage of the opportunities and rose to meet the challenges!

 

To the faculty who joined us, supported us, collaborated with us, and helped us grow: thank you.

 

To the students who have courageously blazed new trails, shared their feedback, asked tough questions, and grown with us: thank you.

 

To our postdocs and the entire extended research community, whose hard work breaks new ground and keeps us connected to real world issues: thank you.

 

To the dedicated staff that enable our programs, assist our faculty, and support our students, often in subtler and less noticed ways: thank you.

 

To the partners, donors, and sponsors who believe in our work and help us fulfill our mission in many ways beyond financial support: thank you.

 

Below we are sharing the report we have compiled showing some of the highlights of the last 8 years, celebrating what we have built and acknowledging our fantastic community.

 

It has been an honor and an exciting adventure to help this institute, these programs, and this community to take shape. I am pleased to see where IDSS is today, and I am positive that the future of IDSS will be bright.

 

I look forward to remaining engaged in IDSS's future, but for now, here's to a wonderful summer — and for me, a long-awaited sabbatical!