The activities in which one may participate only indirectly, as they are distributed across the campus and constitute the public life of the University. The first of these are the essential focus of schools, colleges and departments. But the second and third domains of commitment require some more direct central support and leadership. Here it is our job to make it easy for students, faculty and researchers to move across disciplinary and administrative boundaries. It also is our job to assure that the general environment of the University provides the intellectual and aesthetic richness that nurtures us all.
Diversity is an essential part of that general environment.
While I have defined the Provost's primary functions in terms of the interests of faculty and students, one of the most important things I have learned in my brief period in the central administration is the centrality of nonacademic staff to pursuing our academic missions. This University is fortunate indeed to be served by thousands of people whose hard work, understanding and love of the institution make possible everything that we do. I look forward to using this column to share with you both my interests and yours.