Art, Science, and Inspiration
Dear DU community members,
Below is a collection of experiences or readings I have found inspiring, thought-provoking, and relevant recently. I hope that this allows you to get to know me better, both as chancellor and a fellow community member.
Below is a collection of experiences or readings I have found inspiring, thought-provoking, and relevant recently. I hope that this allows you to get to know me better, both as chancellor and a fellow community member.
Taking in the Arts
Over winter break, my wife, Maurin, and I visited the Denver Art Museum. We are big fans of art and were pleased to view the Camille Pissarro exhibit. Pissarro’s work encourages its viewers to question what we see and know, or in other words, to not take daily scenes for granted. As well, he seemed to me a man who cared about his family as much as his work—a holistic approach to purpose and career we seek to foster with our 4D Experience.
From Science Fiction to History
I also recently escaped into the sci-fi and techno-thrillers of Daniel Suarez. In contrast to many other sci-fi novels, Suarez’s stories are often set just 10 years into the future. What I like about sci-fi is how it can help us interrogate the choices we make today and where they might lead us. A fun exercise: what can Star Trek and Star Wars—yes, both products of popular culture—tell us about current events?
Another book I’ve enjoyed is “Grant” by Ron Chernow. I was struck by Grant’s objection to the war with Mexico over Texas. He thought it was an imperialist act of a much stronger country over another with the goal of adding another slave state to the union. History often reveals that the present is never truly new.
Another book I’ve enjoyed is “Grant” by Ron Chernow. I was struck by Grant’s objection to the war with Mexico over Texas. He thought it was an imperialist act of a much stronger country over another with the goal of adding another slave state to the union. History often reveals that the present is never truly new.
Breakthroughs in Science
At the University of Denver, we have incredible science programs and groundbreaking work by faculty to be proud of. When I read this recent article by the Stanford Report , I was moved again by the impact scholars and faculty are making here and across this country to make a better world for us all. From AI models detecting earthquakes to leaps in cancer research and astrometry, our country’s scholarship is absolutely vital to our collective future.
Together, the arts and sciences have allowed me to reflect on my own humble position in the universe—I hope we all have a chance to embrace our curiosity, creativity, and wonder in the world around us. A university campus is a perfect place these days to do so.
Best wishes,
Jeremy Haefner
Chancellor
Together, the arts and sciences have allowed me to reflect on my own humble position in the universe—I hope we all have a chance to embrace our curiosity, creativity, and wonder in the world around us. A university campus is a perfect place these days to do so.
Best wishes,
Jeremy Haefner
Chancellor