May 20, 2003

UCSB Campus Community

This is to remind you of the upcoming Day of Reflection this Wednesday, May 21, 2003. This is an opportunity for the University community to come together in special sessions - lectures, workshops and moderated discussions -- on important subjects that relate to the theme of "War, Peace and the U. S. Role in the World."

A featured event of this day will be a talk in the Corwin Pavilion at 11:00 am by Ambassador Joseph C. Wilson, IV, a UCSB alumnus. During a long and distinguished diplomatic career, he held key posts in many countries, including Iraq, where from 1988-1991 he served as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U. S. Embassy and as Acting Ambassador. An expert on world affairs, Mr. Wilson will offer his insights on a range of subjects related to the world in which we live, and help lead a public forum on the issues.

A number of faculty, staff and students have submitted ideas for other activities during the day, ranging from talks to films to panel discussions. We have made every attempt to accommodate these proposals and have scheduled these events throughout the lunch hour, afternoon and evening in campus facilities. A schedule of activities is posted on the UCSB web site at http://www.ucsb.edu/. You are advised to check this schedule prior to the events on Wednesday in case there are any last minute changes. Flyers should be posted on campus as well. Faculty members may also find an opportunity to discuss related issues within the context of their course offerings on Wednesday.

We all are aware of the special responsibility that a university such as ours bears in advancing knowledge and facilitating the free and open exchange of ideas. Promoting discussion and debate is part of the process of both teaching and learning. We believe that our campus community can learn from the events that will be held this Wednesday.

Sincerely,
 

Henry T. Yang Chancellor
Gene Lucas Acting Executive Vice Chancellor
Michael Young Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs