Antczak reinforces mission of liberal education in remarks launching final academic year leading CLAS

Embrace progress and continually cherish the noble calling of educating students to live a well-rounded life, Dean Fred Antczak told his colleagues in remarks launching the final academic year of his time leading the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

"We are so lucky to do what we do: to prepare students to make a living and make a life, as professionals, citizens, parents, friends, lovers of art and dance and film and music, users of technology, consumers of media, and much more," Antczak told those assembled in the Louis Armstrong Theatre at the Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts.

Antczak will return to the faculty in summer 2020 after his 16th year as the founding dean of CLAS. His speech at the start-up event for CLAS faculty and staff preceded remarks from President Philomena V. Mantella and Maria Cimitile, provost and executive vice president for Academic and Student Affairs.

A common thread in Antczak's remarks was that a liberal education serves as a crucial base for students to thrive throughout their lifetimes, beyond their first job. That same preparation also equips students with the necessary skills, such as critical thinking, that will help them adapt to inevitable advances in their professions and society, he said.

"Preparing our students for living as professionals and citizens will be challenging," Antczak said. "Preparing each person for a whole life of sudden, profound and accelerating change may prove even more difficult, and surely more important."

He urged his colleagues to model for students a willingness to grow and learn. Disruption, while uncomfortable, can spur the changes necessary to address a rapidly evolving higher education landscape and shifting expectations in students, parents and the general public.

Antczak added that turning disruption into an opportunity has been "a hallmark of CLAS in these last 15 years."

As he eyes his return to the faculty, Antczak said he is mindful that he is navigating his own personal disruption and the attendant emotions. He also said he is looking forward to working more closely alongside his colleagues who have made such a difference in the world, from grappling with environmental crises to strengthening schools.

"I’m very proud of you, and proud of what we innovated together over these years," Antczak said. "But what we build into the future always needs to be the right thing for the times and circumstances as they present themselves. Let’s always bring our expertise and experience and professional imagination to the party. Let’s stay nimble."