A Message to UConn Nation from the President Designate

"One of the great pleasures I’ve taken from this announcement has been learning that so many of my colleagues and friends from around the world have a proud UConn connection," writes Thomas C. Katsouleas.

President designate Thomas C. Katsouleas receives applause following his address to the Board of Trustees after being appointed as the 16th University president on Feb. 5, 2019. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)

President designate Thomas C. Katsouleas receives applause following his address to the Board of Trustees after being appointed as the 16th University president on Feb. 5, 2019. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)

To my new colleagues and friends of the UConn Nation:

In the past three days since the Board of Trustees appointed me as your president designate, I have been overwhelmed by so many warm welcomes and well wishes from around the country. I have enjoyed reading your comments and thoughtful feedback, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to the entire university community.

Although it is taking me a while to reply to every message I’ve received this week given my current responsibilities in Virginia, one of the great pleasures I’ve taken from this announcement has been learning that so many of my colleagues and friends from around the world have a proud UConn connection. So many of them speak of their time in Connecticut with wistfulness, and how they treasure memories and the experiences that transformed their lives.

These comments and your warm welcome have made me and Anna Maria all the more excited to join your community. I look forward to getting to know you all a little better over the coming months, and talking more about how together we can build upon the great momentum here and take UConn to new heights.

Thank you again for your tremendous support. Go Huskies!

Tom Katsouleas