Augusta University
Russell T. Keen, EdD
One of my favorite Christmas movies is It’s a Wonderful Life. The movie centers around the character George Bailey, who, after a series of unfortunate events, finds himself at a bridge – both actually and symbolically. At a time of despair and hopelessness, George begins to think the world would be better without him. Fortunately, on that bridge George meets an angel named Clarence who helps him see the true value and purpose of his life. This supernatural encounter leaves George exhilarated, with a renewed outlook on life, family and community.
As you approach The Bridge, our quarterly newsletter, I hope you will see the value you bring to Augusta University. I hope that sharing the wonderful things going on around us brings each of us to a place of gratitude and joy for Augusta University, but also for our community, our state, our country, and all the wonderful people who contribute so much to our lives, livelihoods and well-being.
If we were all given a glimpse of what life would be like without Augusta University, or if we could truly see the impact we have as individuals, I believe that we would be just as inspired and excited as George Bailey at the conclusion of the movie. We would be roaming the AU campus and the streets in our neighborhoods expressing gratitude for the unique things and individuals in our community that we often take for granted. We would be shouting greetings to our friends and neighbors, even though we see them routinely, and hurrying home to our families to hold our loved ones tightly. We would know in our hearts that we are truly blessed to have such wonderful lives.
Unlike George Bailey, I do not need an angel encounter to see that Augusta University could not be where it is today or get where it is going without steadfast stakeholders like you. Our teams work hard to position our university for bigger and better things. If you are reading The Bridge, please know that you are a key part of our success.
On behalf of our entire team, thank you for everything you have done to help us in our efforts to make Augusta University one of the greatest universities in the nation. I hope that you know what a critical role you play in helping us secure support, funding and friendships. In the movie Clarence says to George, “Each man’s life touches so many other lives, and when he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?” I want you to know that without you, we would have an awfully big hole in who we are today as an institution.
Friends, it truly is a wonderful life at Augusta University, and we are so thankful that each of you are in it with us! I hope this edition of The Bridge leaves you with a sense of excitement and renewed commitment to what lies ahead for Augusta University and our community.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Sincerely,
Russell T. Keen, EdDEVP for Administration and External Relations & Chief of Staff to the President Read Newsletter
