May 8, 2020 - COVID-19 Update
A message from President Hasseler - May 8, 2020
As the spring semester closes and summer approaches, we are mindful of the extraordinary efforts of our Muskingum students, faculty, and staff in adapting to dramatically different circumstances. Faculty and staff devoted themselves to the needs of all students, both collective and individual. Our students adjusted to new learning strategies and expectations. We are grateful for this remarkable work.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, we have been planning for the future. Instructional and financial scenarios and options have been a primary focus, along with developing and refining measures to ensure health and safety for all. Our guiding principle is that the needs of our students must drive planning and decision-making.
We are making plans to reopen the Muskingum campus for in-person classes and student housing in the fall. We are preparing specific plans to return to on-campus learning and living for our undergraduate students with careful attention paid to state and federal health guidance. We are also continuing our investment in innovative online and blended programs for adult learners and students who need more flexible attendance options.
We recognize that resuming on-campus activities will entail important modifications to our practices. Faculty and staff are already working on plans for the implementation of those modifications with careful attention paid to safety protocols. This work encompasses all aspects of classroom and laboratory instruction, student life, campus events, and services. Planning for fall athletic programs is being done in collaboration with the NCAA and our peers in the Ohio Athletic Conference. We also intend to build on the lessons we have learned about effective uses of technology to strengthen all of our programs.
We eagerly anticipate the return to face-to-face interaction while also continuing to expand our opportunities for more flexible learning environments. Personal interaction is the essence of what Muskingum provides to students in a holistic educational experience. The value of direct engagement in a community of learners is without measure. We will, however, be carefully monitoring state and federal guidance and will adapt as needed to ensure the safety of our entire community.
We will continue regular communications as plans are developed and finalized. Please visit our COVID-19 webpage at muskingum.edu/coronavirus for ongoing updates and information.
Thank you for your ongoing dedication and commitment to Muskingum’s future.
President Sue Hasseler
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