Dear Fredonia Community,
Happy Thursday! If you look at the academic calendar, you may notice, perhaps with surprise, that we have only seven weeks left of the Spring 2021 semester. I hope that helps you appreciate that time is moving quickly. With that, let me share a few things with you for this Thursday.
Surveillance Testing Update
Since February 8, we have conducted 12,783 student surveillance tests on campus. In those tests, we have had only six positive student cases. For some perspective on how much better we are doing in controlling COVID-19 this semester, consider this: Over the course of the entire Fall 2020 semester, we had a grand total of 212 COVID cases (from all testing options) among students. So far, more than halfway through Spring 2021, we have had a grand total of 26 cases. This is remarkable. Of course, this is not by accident. It is because of our vigilance in protecting our campus from infections. Can this be reversed? Yes, if we let up. With the warmer weather upon us, there will be more temptations to take risks. We must all avoid those risks. Again, we have only seven more weeks before the semester ends. Let’s stay the course.
Livestream of Commencement Stage Walks
Given the status of the pandemic and warnings about the new strains that are evolving, I shared with the Class of 2021 last week our intentions to have a Commencement ceremony that includes both in-person and recorded elements. We referred to our plan as the “Stage Walk” which consists of multiple in-person graduation walks across the stage to receive diploma covers. The in-person Stage Walks will be recorded for all degree candidates who would like to participate. The recorded walks will then be incorporated into the full Commencement video ceremony that we will produce and release on Saturday, May 15. Also, we have updated our plans to livestream the Stage Walk for families and friends to watch remotely and see their graduates live on stage.
I want you to know that I have received letters from some parents and others urging me to consider doing more regarding Commencement. I understand. As a parent whose youngest child completed his studies in the Spring of 2020, when universities across this country could not hold ceremonies, and did not see him walk across the stage, I have a sense of the emotions. We are continuing to look at our plans to ensure that we are doing everything to provide our graduates a safe and memorable Commencement experience.
Seniors, I appreciate your understanding of this situation. Please check your emails for communications from the Commencement Committee regarding our plans, including information on how your loved ones can share a special message with you during your Stage Walk.
Available Mental Health Assistance
Students, this semester (like last semester) is demanding. Do not hesitate to seek help if you feel stressed. Some of you have written to me about a mental health day. I will need to explore that with the academic leadership/faculty. I will get back to you. However, in the meantime, I want to again emphasize the mental health support resources available to help students who are struggling as the semester moves along. Fredonia has services available through the Counseling Center so students can talk openly and confidentially. In addition, everyone at Fredonia has access to myStrength, a free online tool to help manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other common mental health issues. Visit myStrength.com: Click “Sign Up” and enter the access code FredoniaBlueDevil for unlimited access to personalized help, including tracking your mood, managing depressive and anxious thoughts, and accessing and sharing inspirations. Additionally, among the many state resources available, the New York State Office of Mental Health has a toll-free hotline for free emotional support, consultations, and referrals to providers. That number is 1-844-863-9314.
President’s Awards for Excellence
I am delighted to share with you this year's recipients of the President's Award for Excellence and the College Council Award for Community Engagement. The awardees are as follows:
President’s Award for Excellence in University Service
Deborah Dibble, Director of the Student Health Center
I-Fei Chen Markham, Staff Accompanist, School of Music
College Council Award for Community Engagement
Jennifer Wilkins, Internship Coordinator/Career Counselor, Career Development Office
President’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning
This year, I want to recognize and thank all faculty for their extraordinary efforts to continue teaching and learning, the primary reason for our existence, under this unprecedented pandemic climate.
I had the pleasure of meeting with Debbie, Jennifer and I-Fei. They exemplify the spirit of Fredonia through their service to the university and the community. |
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