Message from President Davenport, Nov. 12, 2020
Dear Campus Community:
We're only two weeks away from Thanksgiving break and down to our final four weeks of the semester. Students, we are cheering for you as you complete end-of-term projects and prepare for exams. Faculty and staff, we appreciate all of the work you’ve done to support our students during this unusual time. We are hopeful that all of you remain healthy and finish the rest of the fall semester well.
Like much of the U.S., we are seeing an increase in COVID cases in Minnesota, as well as an uptick on our campus. We are currently still at the yellow level, but as cases increase we are creeping closer to orange. While we're all weary of the reminders, please remain vigilant about wearing your mask and maintaining a six-foot distance from others. While these requirements have been implemented for indoor activities, as an extra level of precaution I would encourage you to wear your mask and maintain social distancing while outdoors as well.
We will continue to look to our local, state and national leaders for guidance and will do everything we can to make Minnesota State University, Mankato as safe as possible for all students, faculty and staff.
To that end: Last week we held the first of three free saliva testing events on campus; the second will be held this afternoon from noon to 6 p.m. in the CSU Ballroom, and the third will take place on Thursday, Nov. 19. No pre-registration required; you will check in at the ballroom. Results will be delivered by email, text or phone within 48 to 72 hours after the test. These testing events are meant to help identify asymptomatic cases of the virus before students and others travel to see family for the Thanksgiving holiday.
For our students: Your families are undoubtedly excited to see you—please take the extra step of protecting them by taking a test before you head home and making good decisions about the activities you participate in off campus.
I’d also like to remind everyone how important it is to continue wearing masks—and to wear them properly, over both your nose and mouth. During this time of increased spread, wearing a mask and practicing social distancing are simple things you can do to stay safe.
Please continue to take this seriously. Make smart choices for the sake of your health, your family’s health, and the health of all your friends, coworkers and neighbors.
Thank you for doing your part, #MavFam.
Sincerely,
Richard Davenport
President
