Dear Cal alums, parents, and friends,
In one fell swoop, the school year has begun. Energy fills the air, and it is one of my greatest privileges to welcome students and reconnect with staff and faculty. Beyond the push to move stuff into the dorms, I saw a mix of emotions — from pride and excitement among students to the bittersweetness of a loved one saying goodbye. I also welcomed more than 9,000 first-year and transfer students at convocation. Flip through a few photos highlighting last week.
Just as students are back, so is Moffitt Library. After nearly two years of renovations, the three lower floors have been transformed into the Carol T. Christ Center for Connected Learning, named after my predecessor, Chancellor Emerita Carol Christ. (Renovation of the two upper floors was completed in 2016.)
When I was an undergrad, Moffitt provided me with the peace required to study and to deeply engage with my coursework. Yet like everything else, it needed to adapt to changing needs. Gone are the days when a library was primarily a place for books and silent, solo study. Today’s students also need spaces that enable them to move the furniture, scribble on writable walls, grab a bite, study in groups, or practice a presentation.
From the get-go, students were involved in articulating their visions for Moffitt’s future. Their dream for a space that would nurture belonging and interconnection guided the design. The library now includes an expanded Free Speech Movement Café; a new facility for students who need testing accommodations; a hub that connects undergraduates to research, internships, and other hands-on learning experiences; and distinct spaces for quiet focus, group work, and events.
The fully reimagined Moffitt Library is the culmination of years of planning, fundraising, and collaboration, across the campus and beyond. It would not have been possible without the support of donors. I am especially grateful to Nadine Tang M.S.W. ’75, whose capstone gift pushed the renovation over the finish line. Nadine’s generosity recognizes Carol’s extraordinary leadership and passion for the quality of, and equity in, the student experience, as well as their longtime friendship.
While we live in an era of unprecedented convenience, Berkeley reminds us to actively explore and enjoy all that it offers. Just as I urged students in this video to engage with their learning, support systems, and each other, I urge you, our alums and donors, to engage with our campus and community. Your care and love are what make things like the Christ Center — and so much more — possible.
Fiat Lux, and Go Bears!
Chancellor Rich Lyons
Chancellor’s Choice
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