As we stepped into our roles as co-editors of Perspectives this year, we were met with a continued, common theme in our conversations with colleagues: uncertainty. It quickly became clear that this feeling resonates deeply across professional and personal lives; the uncertainty that creeps into our work, the political landscape of our country, and even personal relationships. We sometimes feel unsure and concerned about how things outside of our control will affect our day-to-day lives, and it can be easy to focus on these things instead of the items we actually have an impact on.
This inspired us to center the current issue around the idea of uncertainty—what it means, how it shows up in our work, and how we navigate it. We invited contributors to reflect on what uncertainty means to them and how it influences their work and lives. The responses were thoughtful, honest, and wide-ranging. In this issue, you’ll find perspectives that highlight education happening on the first amendment, multiple viewpoints on the topic of hiring in today’s workforce, concerns over the future of housing amidst the enrollment cliff, suggestions for preparedness related to crisis response, a conversation about the nature of change, and a personal narrative from a colleague who immigrated to America. They pose questions that have caused us to reflect on our own life and work: what quick ways can we re-center ourselves when things feel overwhelming? Where can we find the “helpers” in our lives? When do we stand firm versus embrace change?
We believe this issue offers something meaningful for everyone in AFA, whether it prompts reflection, sparks conversation, or simply provides a moment of connection. As we head into the summer months, we hope you find time to sit with these stories and consider your own relationship with uncertainty.
