Coronavirus Update: April 17, 2020
As we end another week of virtual classes, I wanted to give you an update regarding some of your most pressing questions. I want you to know that the campus community is working hard to accommodate your needs during this difficult and unprecedented time. You are deeply missed and prayed for regularly (like every day).
Class Pass/Fail Option for Students
Faculty reviewed the student petition for a pass/fail option for Spring 2020 and voted this week to approve a temporary grading policy that will allow undergraduate students to opt for CR/NC (credit/no credit). For any eligible course with a letter “D” grade or better, undergraduate students will have until May 29, 2020, to opt to have that grade recorded as “CR.” A letter grade of “F” would be recorded as “NC” and would not impact the cumulative grade point average.
Note that courses that lead to licensure will not be eligible for the CR/NC option (e.g. nursing and education courses). Students are encouraged to reach out to their academic advisor if they have questions.
Student Belongings in Residence Halls
The “shelter in place order” issued by Governor Holcomb is still in effect and urges us to practice social distancing for the health and safety of all those around us. A plan has been developed for students to retrieve their belongings from residence halls as soon as it is safe to do so. When state and county health officials determine that it is safe to return to campus, students will be notified about the planned details for gathering belongings.
Room and Board Credits
We are awaiting essential information from the Department of Education. We expect that information next week, which gives AU the remaining guidelines on how to distribute those funds from the United States Department of the Treasury. Stay tuned!
Athletics
We have every intention that our fall and winter sports will continue with competition as currently scheduled. We are aware given the current COVID-19 crisis that the NCAA, the HCAC, and its member institutions will have to regularly assess the situation over the course of the summer. Our athletes add incredibly to the AU experience, in their sport, the classroom, and as part of the campus community. We can’t wait for the opportunity to cheer them on again!
Camps, Conferences, Events On Campus
As information about COVID-19 evolves quickly, the safety of our faculty, staff, students, and campus guests continue to guide our evaluations. Today, the difficult decision was made to cancel all camps, conferences, and events on the campus of Anderson University through June 30. We will reevaluate July events by May 1. Although it saddens me to give you this news, we must follow our guiding principles in helping to care for those around us and responsibly provide a safe environment for those that are on our campus.
Class of 2020 Commencement
Thank you for completing the survey, we had a great response. After reviewing the responses, we are exploring a Homecoming celebration for the class of 2020. The commencement planning committee will be meeting next week to discuss the details.
Lastly, I miss you! I often look out of my window at Boyes House and look forward to the day that the campus is filled with Ravens once more. I appreciate you all being patient as we navigate these uncharted waters. We are thinking about you and we are praying for you. We are #StillAU.
Blessings,
President Pistole