Much progress has been made on reinventing the Mount’s operations to address the many challenges we currently face. We are taking comprehensive, common-sense steps to help keep you safe and maintain the exceptional Mount experience.
June 19, 2020
Return to Campus Update, as we Celebrate Juneteenth.
Students:
Our faculty and staff have been developing the Mount’s path forward this fall, during this time when a pandemic continues to disrupt our daily lives and our country is facing a crisis of conscience in confronting the systemic effects of racism. On this Juneteenth—a day that commemorates June 19, 1865, when the news of the Emancipation Proclamation was delivered to enslaved Americans in Texas—we know that our planning must not only focus on preventing illness, but include the safety of all members of our community from the destructive impacts of racism.
Over the past week, the Mount held virtual forums for students, faculty, and staff to begin to process the events taking place in our nation. The dialogue among us thoughtfully addressed the many facets of racism, reflected the respect and concern for all persons upon which the Mount was founded, and acknowledged the opportunities we have to learn and grow as individuals and as an institution that is dedicated to a diversity of cultures and beliefs. The Mount will continue to lead this important dialogue through various events and programs this academic year, as we work together as a community of acceptance for all.
Much progress has been made on reinventing the Mount’s operations to address the many challenges we currently face. We are taking comprehensive, common-sense steps to help keep you safe and maintain the exceptional Mount experience.
Next week, the Mount will share its detailed plan for returning to campus this fall, which will include the following elements:
- an overview of the new In*Sync Virtual Learning Experience Program;
- a list of the premier in-person student-engagement programs that will take place this fall;
- details regarding in-person freshman and transfer orientations;
- information about the annual service-learning kickoff in August, which will include in-person and virtual service opportunities;
- guidance on living in Seton Residence Hall this academic year, with students who are planning to live on campus receiving a separate and detailed communication from the Office of Residence Life about changes necessitated by the pandemic; and
- additional details about fall sports practices and competition as they become available from the Athletic Department, which is working with the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) to finalize fall plans.
Every crisis brings opportunity—and the current events impacting our country and the world are no different. In responding, the Mount is committed to being stronger, safer, and united in a common purpose. We are leading the way towards a new era in higher education.
Thank you – and may God continue to bless.
Sincerely,
H. James Williams, Ph.D.
President
2020 | Office of the President
5701 Delhi Road, Cincinnati, OH 45233
President@msj.edu