The past few months have shown members of the University community how much they depend on each other, UWindsor president Robert Gordon says in a video Thanksgiving message released Thursday.

“We've all been facing challenges and uncertainty for a very long time now,” he says. “So take a well-deserved break, and kick back a little.”

Dr. Gordon notes that the holiday always seems to come at just the right time.

“It certainly marks a passing of seasons, and the onset of shorter days and colder weather. It also provides a time to enjoy the company of those who are closest to us, and to just take a deep breath.”

He continues that Reading Week presents a chance to reflect on the work to deal with the “great challenges” posed by the pandemic.

“Our students, staff, and faculty are doing everything they can to adapt and follow the measures that need to be taken to protect their health and the health of others,” Gordon says. “Maintaining appropriate social distancing, smaller gatherings, wearing masks, washing our hands as frequently as possible are not just a way of life, but something we know is working in the battle against COVID-19.”

Given that the virus continues to infect people, there is no rush to have everyone return to work on campus, he concludes.

“It will take a long time to have everyone back,” he told staff and faculty. “If you are working effectively and efficiently at home right now, you will likely be doing so for the foreseeable future.”

Watch the entire video message:

Thanksgiving wishes were also extended by Ryan Flannagan, associate vice president of student experience, sending greetings to students near and far:

The presidents of the three student unions — Christopher Baillargeon of the Organization of Part-time University Students, Sathish Pichika of the Graduate Student Society, and Herman Dayal of the University of Windsor Students’ Alliance — created a message for their members: