Dear Cardinals,
Thank you again for all you are doing to adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines. I realize this is a challenging time, but I encourage you to keep it up and try not to “catch” COVID-19 fatigue. Tomorrow, Oct. 9, from 2 to 4 p.m., in recognition of successfully completing six weeks of on-ground classes in Winona, we’re planning a congratulatory celebration. Come to the plaza for a free ice cream treat.
I have also been impressed with the more than 70 programs offered to students through Campus Ministry; Recreation, Involvement, and Student Engagement (R.I.S.E.); Residence Life; and student organizations. I appreciate the creativity it takes to organize and implement these events, and I thank you.
We’ve had a number of COVID-19 successes this year. We’ve proven that quarantining slows the spread, how mask wearing and social distancing can help reduce the number of positive cases, and how refraining from having guests in the residence halls is making a positive impact. As difficult as it is, try to reduce the number of individuals you are in contact with, encourage your peers to adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines, and continue to care for each other.
We are in this together and will celebrate again in November, once we have successfully obtained our goal. We are Cardinal strong!
Tim Gossen, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
Reminders related to COVID-19:
- If you have questions or concerns, email covid@smumn.edu, call 507-457-1614, or complete the COVID-19 feedback form.
- Thank you for filling out the COVID-19 gathering form. The programs have been impressive. Continue to submit your requests.
- Toner Student Center 14 has been reserved for commuter students so they are able to have a space to go between classes.
- By the end of the month, we will publish more information on how to prepare for departure on Nov. 24.
- Students living in the residence halls should watch for communication from staff regarding the cleaning process for the air purifiers.
- Feel free to use credit and debit cards as well as well as flex dollars at the Market.
Be mindful when on and off campus
Last weekend, the Winona police alerted us that they were called out to at least six student house parties. They are concerned the number of parties they are seeing is on the rise. Please be aware that the city of Winona has directed the police to start handing out tickets rather than warnings, when appropriate, to individuals attending these parties. As the city of Winona has reached the 1,000 mark for positive COVID-19 cases, we need to be ever more mindful of our responsibilities both on and off campus.
Sharing news via bulletin boards on campus
Bulletin boards are a major means of communication on campus. As a reminder, before hanging up any materials, please consult the posting policy on page 44 in the Student Handbook, where you will find guidelines about where you can hang materials as well as who needs to review prior to posting. Failure to abide by these instructions will result in removal.
Wi-Fi and other IT issues
Contact the HelpDesk at helpdesk@smumn.edu or 507-457-7800.