Georgia Tech is a far-reaching global institution and a strategic national asset. But we never forget that, as an institution of Georgia, Georgia Tech is foremost committed to making our state better. Our national and state priorities are not at odds. On the contrary, they are mutually supportive.
Our newly approved mission statement commits us to develop leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition. In order to do that, it is imperative that we empower people of all backgrounds to learn, grow, and contribute. That’s true for at least two major reasons.
Earlier this month, I shared a century-old photo on Twitter that we received from Georgia Tech alumnus Andy McNeil (PP 2001). It has since gone viral. It was taken by Andy’s great-grandfather, Thomas F. Carter (ME 1922), at a game at Grant Field during the 1918 influenza pandemic — and just about everyone was wearing a mask.
I’m very proud of how our community has stepped up to address the challenges of this pandemic. It has been quite inspiring to see our faculty, staff, students, and alumni band together and show what Progress and Service is all about.
The COVID-19 pandemic may well be the mightiest challenge most of us have faced in our lifetimes. And yet, amid all the uncertainty and difficult choices we have been facing, I have a great sense of optimism about the future.
