May 7, 2021
Dear students,
A little more than nine months ago, you and your families decided to move ahead with studies at Indiana University and the Hamilton Lugar School. This decision was a testimony to your strength and character in what may be one of the most unique and challenging years of our lives.
I want to take a moment to congratulate you on reaching the finish line. I'd also like to thank you.
Whether living in Bloomington or at home, you have endured a year of adaptation, surprises, heartbreak, and resilience.
It's been tough. But you were tougher.
In face the face of myriad obstacles, Hamilton Lugar students persevered and achieved. Salina Tesfagiorgis co-founded Enough is Enough, a student-led organization which held a march of approximately 7,000 people to bring awareness to police brutality in the wake of the George Floyd murder. Sophie Langfitt and Audria Hettinger started the Eleanor Roosevelt Society, which works to uplift the voices of HLS students and faculty on critical issues concerning diversity and inclusion in international politics and academia. Ethan Joss, Shreya Mapadath, and Marria Peduto co-founded Food (Security) for Thought, an initiative that supplied globally inspired CSA food boxes to IU students. The trio also hosted a symposium on food security and global cuisine. Kath Kennelly will be the first graduate of the Cybersecurity and Global Policy Program, a joint degree program by HLS and the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing & Engineering. Kathryn Petersen and Asmaa Mahoui received the 2021 Herman B Wells Distinguished Senior Award, while Wendy Ruiz and Stuart Sones were honored with the 2021 Kate Hevner Mueller Award.
This is just a handful of student accomplishments over the last year. We could not be prouder of you or more excited for the future.
I wish you, and your families, good health and safety in the coming summer months. Whether you're returning to Bloomington in the fall or heading off to grad school or the workforce, please take time to rest and embrace a slower pace before planning for the year ahead. You've earned it.
Dean Lee Feinstein
Founding Dean & Professor
Hamilton Lugar School of Global & International Studies