Monthly Message from President O’Connor - November 2024

Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with our newly-hired residential faculty members and postdoctoral fellow through lunch outings—an annual tradition I truly cherish. These moments of genuine conversation have deepened my understanding of their work and illuminated the incredible talent within our community. Each individual brings unique experiences and perspectives, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our university.

The rich insights shared during these lunches remind me of the importance of building relationships amid our busy lives. The stories and experiences of these new members enrich our collective understanding and foster a sense of belonging—one of the most significant outcomes we strive for in our commitment to equity and inclusion. As Brené Brown states, “True belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world.” Engaging in these conversations allows us to connect authentically, reinforcing our shared mission of collaboration and support.

In addition to these gatherings, I recently participated in the PAU team for NAMIWalks Silicon Valley, an event supporting the National Alliance on Mental Illness. This cause is particularly close to my heart, as I have a family member living with a serious mental illness. What I love most about this annual walk is the chance to talk with students, staff, and trustees who join our team about their work, their concerns, and their hopes for the future. To witness their dedication to mental health advocacy was moving and affirming, highlighting the importance of compassion and the profound feeling of being connected to something greater.

Through our shared experiences—whether over lunch, during walks, or in daily interactions—the PAU community is dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and recognized as an integral part of our meaningful work to support those around us. While we lead very busy lives, there is richness in slowing down to nurture the relationships within our institution and with others in the community dedicated to mental health. May we find joy in our interactions as we reinforce our commitment to making our community a welcoming home for all.