February 4, 2021
Stay strong this spring semester
K-State community:
As we continue with the second week of spring semester classes there are many positive trends in our communities. For now, our key indicators for the COVID-19 pandemic are moving in the right direction. However, the risk remains real and the future is still uncertain; we must not relax in our efforts to protect each other.
Next Monday, Feb. 8, many students, faculty, and staff will return to our classrooms and laboratories as we resume our in-person/hybrid operations as planned. As in the fall semester, we will continue to follow our protocols for cleaning and disinfecting our spaces. And of course, we will need to wear face coverings and maintain physical distance per our health and wellness guidance.
We want every Wildcat to be a Wellcat. This semester, every student and employee will again receive a free Every Wildcat A Wellcat kit that includes hand sanitizers, face coverings and other items. We encourage all K-Staters to take the Every Wildcat A Wellcat Pledge and again commit to putting others first.
Last semester our adherence to these practices proved effective to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Our medical experts advise us to continue these practices, especially with the emergence of new variants of the coronavirus. The next few months will be a critical time for our communities.
We have developed an extensive COVID-19 testing plan to help us understand and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 on campuses. This testing is offered at no cost to students, faculty and staff through Lafene Health Center. Our improved dashboard is helping track and evaluate COVID-19 data in our university-connected communities. We are updating this dashboard every week to keep K-Staters informed.
We know this is a stressful time for everyone and your mental health is important. Our spring 2021 semester also will include a universitywide noninstructional well-being day on Friday, April 16.
There is hope on the horizon. Vaccinations are becoming more available and are now being given to many of the most vulnerable citizens, as well as those on the front line of health care. Please be sure to register for a vaccination with your county health department, and also register with Lafene Health Center. Utilize whichever source is able to give you a vaccination first.
You have all been amazing in finding ways to persevere during these trying times. Let’s stay strong this semester and plan for better days to come.
Sincerely,
Richard B. Myers
President