03/23/2020
I'm here, and I'm listening. A couple of updates:
1. Tomorrow is the last day to pick up a $100 UPS Shipping Voucher at the campus UPS store.
2. For all students, including those living off-campus, tomorrow is the last day where breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served free of cost in MGC.
3. I've heard from many students that have moved back to different time zones that it's unrealistic for them to wake up at 5 a.m., or even 3 a.m., for 8 a.m. courses. I voiced that concern on the webinar, and Dean Jessica Waters noted that the administration has urged all professors and faculty to practice asynchronous learning, allowing students to complete work at a time that works for them. If your professor is conducting online lectures, they should be uploading them online afters. If your professor is still giving you difficulties regarding attending online lecture when you are in a different time zone, reach out to your Dean or Associate Deans.
4. For seniors: a decision has not yet been made regarding Commencement. Administrators truly want this event to happen for students, and they know this is such an important life event for our graduating class.
5. On the topic of graduation, I had a call with the Graduate Leadership Council President today. We talked about issues facing both communities including: Pass/Fail, refunds, and Commencement. The Graduate Leadership Council is penning a letter to the university requesting that commencement not be held online. I will be signing on to that letter as AUSG President.
6. The topic on everyone's minds: Pass/Fail. I brought it up again and voiced my strong support during the webinar on Thursday, and Dean Jessica Waters stated they were still making a decision. I've done everything I can to emphasize how strongly the student body, and myself, believe the policy ought to be changed. I would greatly appreciate if everyone would fill out this survey so I can share this info with the university.
7. Addressing questions that were submitted to me:
-Summer courses will definitely be happening, TBD whether they will be online or in person
-If you can not make it back to campus by tomorrow, rest assured your items will not be thrown out.
-As for finals week, as of right now exams are to be conducted at their scheduled time. If you anticipate there to be a conflict, reach out to your faculty member. Again, you shouldn't have to take a final at 3 a.m. for an 8 a.m. Ask them to make changes for you, and if they are being insistent upon not accommodating for your time zone, reach out to your school's academic leadership.