The following communication was sent to Wichita State University students, faculty and staff today (Tuesday, March 9):
Dear Shocker community,
It is hard to believe that almost a year has passed since we first started communicating
with you about COVID-19 and its impact on our campus. Wichita State University remains
grateful for your continued efforts and cooperation in combating this virus in our
community. I know it hasn’t been easy.
Given the declining number of new cases and hospitalizations, as well as our increased
capacity for rapid testing and effective vaccines, it is with cautious optimism that
I share with you today that WSU has begun careful preparations for returning our campus
to a more normal mode of operations for fall 2021. This includes an increase in in-person
classes, as well as on-campus research, events, activities and community engagement.
While the university is still working on finalizing its plans, we recognize that –
if 2020 taught us nothing else – it is that even the best-laid plans and intentions
cannot guarantee us certainties. So, while we will strive to approach a post-pandemic
normal, we will continue to remain flexible and prepared to pivot to alternative arrangements
at any time, including remote delivery of classes and other virtual events, and we
again ask – with much appreciation – that you do the same.
I know you will have many questions about what to expect this fall. Please know we
will share more details as soon as we are able. As always, the health, safety and
well-being of our entire campus community remains our top priority, and we will continue
to evaluate and plan next steps in accordance with all federal, state and local public
health and governmental guidelines.
In the meantime, I ask that you continue to do all you can to protect yourself, your
family and your friends: Wear a mask, wash your hands, practice physical distancing,
and stay home if you feel ill.
I also encourage you to check in with your friends and campus colleagues. Call, text,
email, Zoom, enjoy the spring weather and gather (safely!) with friends outdoors –
connect in some way. Also, please be reminded, Counseling and Prevention Services is available to our students to consult via telephone or Zoom to help you develop
a self-care plan for your mental health during this time. WSU employees should seek
mental health resources through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which includes
counseling services and referrals to community services.
Finally, remember you can always check for the most recent updates for the university
community at www.wichita.edu/covid. Thank you for all you do!
With Shocker Pride,
Shirley Lefever
Interim executive vice president and provost
Wichita State University
Wichita State University serves as the Kansas urban-based research university, enrolling more than 15,000 students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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