We've come a great distance since 1764 and yet, in important ways, we are rooted to our original
values. From the beginning, this institution has stood for the idea that the status quo
can and must be improved upon, including the status quo of the institution itself.
I am eager to join my new colleagues in imagining new and better ways to advance our mission.
[music continues throughout]
Alzheimer's disease and ALS, Christianson's disease and Fragile X syndrome ... if we want
to solve some of those big questions in brain science, the Carney Institute is the place to be.
We've made huge strides in diversifying our faculty.
We're really making a difference here. Things are really beginning to change.
If I didn't have loans I would feel like I could fly.
Damn, a world without loans. Wow. [laughs in astonishment]
[cheers and applause]
South Street Landing supports our goals of economic development in the city.
It's very important for Brown it's economically vibrant.
We're working to improve the health of kids who live right here in Rhode Island,
but we're taking the lessons from the research to children all around the globe.
We will be known for doing outstanding research in areas that make a difference to the world.
We'll be known as an innovator in education. And we will do this by bringing people together.
They're students here, they're brilliant, and they take all of that learning and
all of those experiences with them when they leave Brown and become leaders and
wonderful Brown alumni who really are just great exemplars of everything that Brown stands for.
Thank you so much for inviting me to testify at today's hearing. Now,
as economies are reopening, we're developing plans to bring research and students back
to campus in compliance with CDC and state guidelines. We will not compromise on safety.
It is so great to have all of you finally here on College Hill. I hope that what we
do together this weekend -- the traditions, the ceremonies,
the reconnections with friends -- reaffirms the meaning and value of your time at Brown.
It's hard for me to believe, but in a few weeks I am coming up on my 10th anniversary at Brown.
[applause]
I am so excited about what we've done but I'm even more excited about what's ahead!