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Greeting Thorobreds,

Thanksgiving break is upon us. During this season of gratitude, many of us may travel to visit with family and friends to enjoy a traditional holiday, reflecting on the people and things for which we are grateful. I want to encourage each of you to remain safe and remember our Thorobred family by continuing to practice COVID-19 protocols. 

I am grateful for Kentucky State University’s 135 years of impact. Our ancestors led a thriving institution with less but with great expectations. That legacy of 135 years has allowed Kentucky State to flourish during her best days and recover during her most challenging times.

I am indeed grateful for each of you and appreciate the strength and resilience of the Thorobred family. I recognize that this has been a challenging season for us. There were many informative discussions and town halls, providing students with the opportunity to express concerns and ask questions. 

Thank you, students, for your patience and honesty. The Thorobred family has great expectations of you. Stay focused during this final academic push and complete projects, research papers, exams, and overdue tasks. The expectation of you is greatness. Your Thorobred family knows you have the heart to get it done.

I am so very proud and grateful for the hard work and dedication of our housing and facilities team members. I encourage each of you to express your appreciation to these teams, too. Thank you to Coach Charlie Jackson and the Thorobred football team and coaches for a great season of football, finishing with a 7-4 overall record. Thank you to Alvin and Churi Level for ensuring we continue to have the greatest marching band in all the land. Thank you to Dr. Lloyd Mallory for continuing the long tradition of choral excellence on our campus. To our distinguished Miss and Mister Kentucky State University and members of the Student Government Association, thank you for representing your classmates with transparency and integrity this semester. To all faculty, staff, students and organizations on campus, thank you for giving it your best this semester.    

For all of you championing Kentucky State University, we say thank you. Have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving break.

Clara Ross Stamps is the acting president of Kentucky State University.