As we return to classes, you will notice new blue banners featuring Benjamin Franklin on display around campus. These commemorate the country’s 250th anniversary and Penn’s significant ties to that revolutionary era. Throughout 2026, the Penn community and Philadelphia will mark the anniversary in a variety of ways, like interactive programming on 52 Weeks of Firsts that prominently features Penn and our founder. The Penn Libraries have created an impressive array of resources, and I encourage everyone to learn more and get involved.
I am proud of our historic firsts and many contributions to the world. For centuries, this University has served society with brilliance, character, and impact. I am confident that Penn would earn the admiration of our founder. I am also inspired by the aspirations and continuity of our shared values and purpose. While we take pride in our past accomplishments, we share another defining characteristic with Franklin—that is Penn’s focus on the future. At this time of year especially, when new resolutions abound, we can all tap into this distinctive Penn value.
The Penn Forward process is a salient example of bold planning for the future. Provost Jackson, EVP Dingfield, and I are now debriefing with the six working groups to learn about their insights and recommendations. These groups have worked diligently to canvas for ideas, garner relevant data, and generate tangible proposals that will position Penn to lead and be even more impactful over the next decade. As many of these proposals become implementable actions, we will be in touch with updates later this semester. For now, I want to recognize the faculty, students, staff, and University leaders for their extraordinary thoughtfulness, focus, and time commitment—you can see a list of working group members on the Penn Forward website.
A forward-facing stance empowers us with agility, resilience, and hope. Hope that, together:
We will adapt and fulfill our missions with the highest degree of excellence;
We will position our University as a leader in serving a society that is changing faster than ever;
And, rather than being resigned to a future that happens to us, we will take a hand in shaping it.
I cannot think of a more inspiring Penn resolution for the new year. I hope winter break was fun and restful, whether you spent time with loved ones, traveled somewhere new, or just relaxed with some favorite shows (like the series finale of “Stranger Things,“ starring one of our own terrifically talented Penn students). Welcome back and best wishes for a great spring semester and a productive 2026 at Penn!
Warmly,
J. Larry Jameson, MD, Ph.D.
President