Campus Update 1/8/21

Logo

Student Affairs Welcome Back

Dear ASU Parent/Family Member, 
 
Please see the below message sent to students regarding the return to campus.
 
Dear Students,
 
Welcome to the start of the spring semester. I hope each of you had a wonderful holiday break and took some time to rest and rejuvenate; as well as catch-up and spend quality time with family and friends. I trust you are ready to return to our campus with excitement and renewed energy. Spring 2021 semester classes will begin on January 11. The first day of every class, regardless of the day it falls on, will be held virtually.
 
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the fall semester was very challenging for our community, but I want to take a moment to express my deep appreciation and gratitude for your patience, understanding and for following of our COVID-19 protocols. Although the spring semester will present some of the same challenges we faced this fall, I am confident you will once again confront them with a spirit of cooperation and care; while continuing to adhere to all COVID-19 protocols.  
 
Students should not attend any off-campus parties that are in Albany or the surrounding areas. These parties, regardless of their location, are not safe. They are not designed with your safety in mind. Attending these parties also increases your risk of contracting COVID-19, which puts the lives of our campus community in jeopardy and poses a threat of campus closure.
 
As we start the spring semester, I want to remind you that everyone is required to wear face masks in all buildings, practice appropriate social distancing and comply with the university and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) health and safety guidelines and recommendations. We must do this to keep our campus community safe. Our Student Health Services Department will continue to offer weekly COVID-19 testing, so I urge you to get tested regularly.
 
As you begin or continue your academic studies at ASU, I strongly encourage you to remain actively and fully engaged inside and outside the classroom. I also urge you to take full advantage of all of the services, resources, programs and events we have to offer. All of these opportunities will enhance your learning and campus experience here at Albany State University. As you know, spring 2021 semester classes will begin on January 11. Students should log into GAView for additional information regarding their classes. 
 
Below are points to remember that will assist with your return to campus. 
 
Dining
  • All meals are prepared in a “to-go” fashion with to-go boxes and disposable utensils. 
 
  • There is limited social distanced seating in each campus dining hall and satellite locations.  
 
  • A mask must be worn upon entering any dining location.
 
  • Meal plans will begin with brunch/lunch on Friday, January 8. 
 
  • Dining dollars will not activate until January 25, and only if all fees due to the University have been paid in full.
 
Bookstore
  • Financial aid will be available for bookstore purchases on January 4. Curbside pick-up will be utilized during normal business hours.
 
 
RAM ID
  • It is extremely important you have your RAM ID with you. All students are required to have their campus identification card (RAM ID) with them at all times while entering or on all University properties. Persons without a RAM ID will not be allowed on campus.
 
  • Students who do not have an ASU ID Card should have their photo taken and ID card created by visiting Ram Central on West Campus or the East Campus ITS Help Desk in the JPL Library.
 
Off-Campus Events 
The Office of Student Engagement is planning many activities to keep you engaged and on-campus in a safe environment. All activities will follow the health and safety guidelines. Student life is an integral part of your educational journey here at ASU. Our continued primary focus is to provide a holistic student experience that engages your head, hands, and heart.
 
Once again, welcome back to campus. Please feel comfortable approaching me with any questions, thoughts, or concerns you may have. You are also invited to attend my regular Friday afternoon student meetings or contact me via email or phone. My best wishes to you for a healthy and successful spring semester!