AU Announces First-50-Day Plan for Fall 2021

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Anderson, Ind. — Anderson University President John S. Pistole recently announced the university’s plans for restoring the residential student experience on AU’s campus within the first 50 days of the fall 2021 semester. This will include re-establishing in-person classes and campus-wide student activities, such as Chapel and events within the residence halls.

Campus officials feel confident and optimistic about this decision, as the COVID-19 vaccine becomes increasingly available within the U.S. and as the number of cases on the AU campus remains steadily low. The president remarked that the university will continue to monitor the virus on campus, and will be prepared to shift its policies and guidelines if needed.

“We are working to establish best practices for moving forward safely this next year,” said President Pistole. “Some scientifically-proven healthy habits for fighting the virus may still be in place, but we will be re-establishing the face-to-face, residential student experience that AU is known for.”

The university also has plans to renovate areas on campus over the summer, such as the dining commons and various academic lab spaces. Additionally, within the first 50 days of the fall semester, the university community will see the return of its Homecoming events, such as the Street Fair, along with its intramural and athletic events for the fall, winter, and spring.

“We are thrilled to see students regathering — while still following health protocols — for clubs, events, athletic contests, and our beloved tradition of hammocking in the Valley,” said Maggie Platt, AU’s director of residence life and student conduct. “This return to activities is a result of our student body’s commitment to putting the safety of our community first, and we could not be prouder of how they have handled this year’s challenges.”

Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.