Dear Colleagues,
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for each and every one of you. Did you know that the first Thanksgiving meal, while celebrated by the Pilgrims and Wampanoag tribe, likely included foods like venison, corn, and wild fowl, but not turkey as we know it today? Over time, our Thanksgiving traditions evolved, just as our public health strategies must. And just as our traditions grow, so too do the ways in which we learn, adapt, and come together to care for one another. This year, as in years past, your dedication, passion, and tireless commitment to the health and well-being of our communities have been nothing short of inspiring. Together, we have navigated complex challenges, celebrated hard-won successes, and remained steadfast in our shared mission to improve public health for all Connecticut residents.
Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for reflection, a time when we pause to count our blessings. However, I also believe it's a time to consider how our actions can shape the future, how we can continue to give thanks not only in word, but in deed. Since the very first day I came to DPH, I have watched as we have all worked hard to build something powerful together: a united team that works with compassion, expertise, and resilience to lift up our communities, and for that I am sincerely thankful every day.
As we enjoy the holiday season, I want you to know how much I appreciate your contributions, whether in public health education, data analysis, outreach, ensuring safety of care and services people receive, or any other aspect of our work. Each role you play is essential to the whole. It is your efforts that keep us moving forward and ensure that our communities have the resources they need to thrive. Together, we work to preserve and protect core public health principles and services, and for that, I am grateful.
I wish you and your family a happy, healthy and joyous Thanksgiving.
Commissioner Juthani