While some of you are enjoying pleasant weather, others must endure the cold and snow most commonly associated with winter. Whether your local climate is temperate or blustery, I hope each of you will be able to celebrate the warmth provided by family and friends, and joyously observe this occasion in the manner of your choosing. 

Sadly, some of you will be separated from your loved ones as a result of work-related responsibilities.  Those of you in the corporate world may be called upon to address serious issues as you hold key positions which require the expertise that only you possess.  Our military students are accustomed to duty requirements that take them away from their families; however, those responsibilities are especially difficult this time of year. Currently, four members of our student body are serving in the Middle East, while three federal civilians travel back and forth to that region for short-term deployments on a continual basis.  Law enforcement and emergency services students will assuredly be required to serve as their work is never-ending.  Our students who serve in the private and not-for-profit sectors will also be "on call" as many are vital cogs in their organizations as well.  What ever the reason you are required to be away from your families, I salute your devotion to your work and hope you will have an opportunity to make-up for those absences in the future.

On behalf of our President, Dr. Robert Gee, and the entire NGS/U administration, I send season's greetings and hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Dr. R.A. McManus

Vice President, Student Services