A Fond Farewell
How to Raise a Bear: A Tribute to France A. Córdova
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Letter from the Chancellor
Below is the farewell message that then-Chancellor France Córdova sent to UCR's students, faculty and staff on Monday May 7, 2007.
Dear Friends:
Today it has been announced that I will be leaving UCR this summer to assume the Presidency of Purdue University. As word of this possibility has spread throughout the campus during the past two weeks, I have received so many thoughtful notes, especially from the faculty. I am deeply moved by these expressions of appreciation. I love this beautiful campus and have always felt at home here. Part of this is because I was raised in Southern California and revel in our sunshine, and part is because of all the warm, happy faces of our diverse student body, which uplifts my spirits.
This was an extremely difficult decision for me. The University of California is the premier research university system in the world. California itself is the world's seventh largest economy, and is bursting with a 'can-do' attitude that makes anything possible. The changing face of California brings a wealth of fresh attitudes, ideas, and creativity to scholarship and commerce. California has been my family's home for more than a half-century. UC Riverside is, in my opinion, the most special of all the campuses of the great UC system.
- It is growing
- It is diverse
- It is welcoming
- It is entrepreneurial
UCR's time to leap forward is now.
None of that will change of course with my departure. UCR is on the move and its momentum will continue. Of the things I've done here, I am especially proud that I have recruited an outstanding leadership team that is devoted to UCR's continued success, and that I have encouraged faculty, staff and students to be imbued with a sense of optimism and empowerment to lead our campus to new heights. I see how the students wear with pride their UCR logo apparel, attend campus functions and talk in the Highlander (student newspaper) about the successes of their campus. I see how the faculty have rallied around several large initiatives, even when initially fearful about the fit with their own research or department. I have seen how staff members have worked so well together to further the important recommendations coming out of the staff climate survey and how they work every minute to improve the campus environment.
My husband Chris and I have enjoyed immensely five wonderful years here. We thank you, not for the years, but for each day that we moved UCR forward together. This campus will always be a most extraordinary, most special place for us.
France A. Córdova
Chancellor
