Dear students, faculty and staff,
Welcome back to campus! I hope the winter break gave you time to rest, reconnect with loved ones and recharge for the semester ahead. As we begin the spring term, I am excited to see our campus buzzing again with energy, ideas and the shared purpose that defines this community.
Spring at Rice is always a special time. In the weeks ahead, we will gather for cherished traditions and new experiences — from Moody-X Fest and the excitement of Owls baseball games to our staff appreciation event and the celebration of faculty excellence through our annual awards ceremony. We will also come together to honor our graduates at commencement, a moment that reminds us why our work here matters so profoundly to our communities, the country and the world.
This semester will also bring several exciting announcements as we continue advancing Rice’s vision and Momentous, our 10-year strategic plan. Thanks to your dedication, creativity and collaboration, our university continues to make a meaningful impact on campus and far beyond.
Whether you are returning to the classroom, the lab, the studio or the many spaces that make Rice feel like home, know how grateful I am for all that you do. I look forward to seeing you around campus and to the discoveries, conversations and celebrations that await us this spring.
Again, welcome back and best wishes for a successful and rewarding semester.
Warmly,
Reginald DesRoches
President, Rice University