May 12, 2020
To the Campus Community,
Today, due to the current and anticipated impacts of COVID-19. Each campus will evaluate curricula to determine if limited exceptions for in-person activities will be possible.
At jmcomicÂþ»N, we will continue our planning for fall instruction using the framework outlined by Chancellor White in consultation with our campus partners and the Academic Affairs Task Force, so that we continue to deliver transformative educational opportunities in a safe and responsible manner. With the health and safety of students, faculty and staff at the forefront of our preparations, we will explore the possibility of supplementing the virtual offerings with a limited number of face-to-face courses and labs that require in-person experiences. Any exception to virtual learning will have significant preventative health measures and contingency plans in place should we need to shift to alternate modalities.
Further details on our campus planning will be forthcoming as soon as possible and will include updates on student housing, dining and other services. Employees who have been working remotely will continue in this mode for now as we further develop plans for fall operations and instruction. We expect that there will be a gradual repopulation of campus implemented when it is safe to do so, following the data surrounding COVID-19 and guidance from public health and elected officials.
I share Chancellor White’s view, which is supported by science and public health experts, that this is the only responsible path for planning for the fall semester. Thanks to the dedication of our faculty and staff and with rigorous standards of safety in all that we do, students will continue to enjoy a vibrant educational experience and momentum toward degrees and certificates.
Thank you for your resiliency in the midst of these extraordinary circumstances, and best wishes on a successful end to the spring semester.
Sincerely,
Dianne F. Harrison, Ph.D.
President