Today in Minneapolis, a jury voted to convict Derek Chauvin, former Minneapolis police officer, of the charges against him in relation to the murder of George Floyd last May.

The verdict in this case comes nearly one year after many of us shared a sense of shock, fear, outrage and sadness in the wake of Floyd’s death. I view today’s decision as but one step in our nation’s reckoning with the racism and discrimination that is embedded in many of our systems and institutions.

Floyd’s death and the events that followed were a catalyst for the creation of our eight specific commitments to promote diversity, equity and inclusion at UTA. Our work is ongoing and steadfast, and I ask that each of you continue to be our trusted partners as we strive for progress that celebrates and encourages meaningful change.

I am hopeful for our future and encourage each of you to remain dedicated to serving as change agents—to continue to use your voices and to lead by example, on campus and off, to foster a more diverse, inclusive and equitable community.

Now and forever, I am proud to be a member of the Maverick community as we strive to do our part to foster a more just nation, and serve as examples to overcome hatred, inequality and violence.