FAU will be closed on Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day. I know that it will be the first three-day weekend since January for many members of the FAU community, and I hope everyone is able to enjoy the extra day off. This weekend also is an important reminder of the tremendous sacrifice made by the countless men and women throughout history who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Their bravery helped to safeguard the rights and freedoms we continue to enjoy today.

I look forward to spending the next few days in Israel on a business development mission with Gov. Ron DeSantis. We plan to sign education and research agreements with partners at Ariel University, Haifa University, Tel Aviv University, and the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation. We’ll also discuss common challenges around water, innovation and technology with local leaders.

For our students who need assistance over the long weekend, several of FAU’s offices will remain open. Whatever your plans for the holiday, I hope that you remain safe and have a pleasant weekend.