Message from the Dean
Message from the Dean Heading link
Dear Alumni and Friends,
For almost two years the coronavirus pandemic has been the major topic of television news broadcasts and other media outlets. Though concerns about the virus are still evident as new variants emerge, we are slowly returning to pre-pandemic and somewhat normal operations. Here at UIC that has meant classroom, rather than virtual, instruction, a return to working from campus offices, and even some receptions and group events.
Many persons continued their work as normal, however, throughout the pandemic. They made our lives manageable and helped assure our health and safety, at times putting their own health and well-being at risk. Typically, we think first of health care staff and public safety officers and then of other groups including grocery store workers, Instacart delivery persons, and Uber drivers.
This issue of Affirmations provides highlights from two Policy Center studies that focused specifically on persons who provide violence prevention and interruption services in Chicago communities with high levels of gun violence. Similar to other first responders and front-line staff, they continued their work as normal throughout the pandemic. The studies provide firsthand accounts of who these staff are, their backgrounds, what they do and why, and their on-the-job experiences. Also conveyed is the importance of providing systems of support, including trauma-informed care for persons engaged in violence prevention work.
This issue also highlights the extraordinary career of Visiting Clinical Associate Professor Dr. Osei Darkwa who died in November following a brief illness. Dr. Darkwa’s knowledge, kindness, and humanitarianism will be very much missed at the College and in his home country of Ghana.
Please stay in touch and let us know how you are doing and what you are doing. Your work in advancing social justice and your support of the College are very much appreciated. Please be well and stay safe.
Sincerely,
Creasie Finney Hairston, PhD
Dean and Professor