Antonio D. Tillis, Ph.D.

Greetings Gator Family,

It is hard to believe that we are approaching the semester’s end … and what a semester it has been.

Fall 2020 has indeed presented its share of challenges, but working together, we have met them head on. This semester, UHD achieved record enrollment and recently broke ground on another transformative addition to the campus—the Student Wellness & Success Center. And of course, we’ve continued to navigate emerging obstacles presented by the ongoing pandemic. Through it all, your teamwork has made the difference.

Next week is Thanksgiving, and everyone has earned a much-deserved holiday break. Likewise, all of you have earned my respect and gratitude. In the spirit of the upcoming holiday, I would like to extend thanks to all of you. Your hard work, determination and dedication has made the difference this semester. Thank you, Gators!

As you prepare to spend time with family and friends, please remember to stay safe during the holiday. Continue to follow recommendations from medical leaders regarding masks, distancing and hygiene.

Please remember that all face-to-face, hybrid and online interactive courses will go online starting Nov. 30. Faculty and students will not return to the classroom following the holiday break. The campus, however, will remain open after the break. University offices, including those providing services to students, will continue normal business operations. In the event that conditions change, UHD leadership will notify you immediately.

While the end of Fall 2020 is in sight, there is much work to be done. Let’s enjoy the upcoming holiday safely and return with a renewed sense of purpose to finish what we started this semester.

Stay safe, Gators!

Antonio D. Tillis, Ph.D.
Interim President, University of Houston-Downtown