Dear Harvard College Students,

For my family and me, Thanksgiving recess is a time to come together to rest and reflect on the past year, and to give thanks for what we have and for each other. I am grateful for each of you and your unique contributions to our Harvard College community.

We have come through a lot over these past months, and I have been heartened by the way we have emerged as a stronger community – one rooted in respect and support for one another. I am proud of how you have responded in positive and productive ways to a changing and uncertain world. Students stood up for one another at Act on a Dream’s October rally on the steps of Memorial Church; many of you stepped up to support community members from our nation and around the world as they started the long path to rebuilding their homes and lives after the recent hurricanes; and numerous members of our community turned out to share their memories of Dr. Allen Counter and Alexander Patel ’18.

This fall has also been filled with moments of laughter and fun – from students cheering at the Head of the Charles to the joyful celebration of Sir Elton John as the Harvard Foundation’s “Humanitarian of the Year,” to this year’s Harvard-Yale Game, which was filled with festivities and camaraderie. These moments, and many others, remind me that when times test us, we can count on friends, family, and colleagues for strength and support.

Whether you are traveling a great distance, staying close to Cambridge, or remaining on campus for the holiday weekend, I want to wish you a safe and joyful respite. I look forward to seeing you upon your return.

Warmly,
Dean Khurana
Danoff Dean of Harvard College