We are at a time of the year and a time in higher education where it can feel like everything is shrinking. Budgets are getting tighter. Social support of higher education is contracting. With the enrollment cliff, student numbers are down. Even the days are getting shorter. It is easy to turn to fear and frustration.
But let’s not.
As you read the articles in this issue of Developments, you will find strategies for managing the difficulties – how to do less, how to care for yourself in the midst of the chaos. You will also find a theme about relationships: relationships sustained over time, how to support international students through relationship and care, how to lead through relationships, and strategies for building relational engagement.
We hope that in the midst of a time when it feels like things are shrinking, pull those around you close. Show care, express gratitude, and put hope into action. We have some really amazing colleagues in our work. Some of them have shared their work with you in this issue. Be kind to yourselves, everyone.
Michelle Boettcher, Developments Editor