A Message from President Gerard J. Rooney

This is a time of great uncertainty. I know that last week’s turn of events was unexpected, felt abrupt, and left many of you feeling anxious. The decisions to suspend on-ground instruction and to vacate the residence halls were made with the most up to date, publicly available information and your best interest in mind.

As the situation across the country changed rapidly last week, we acted quickly to take measures to ensure all members of our Fisher community were put in the best position to remain safe and healthy. I appreciate your understanding in this regard.

As I walked around campus late last week and over the weekend, I was struck by my conversations with so many of you. Your willingness to do your part to mitigate community risk was inspiring to me and I commend you.

We recognize that this was certainly not the semester you wanted or expected. But I am confident that together, we will make this shift and you will continue your academic progress and success.

As a reminder, classes are suspended this week and online instruction will begin on Monday, March 23. We will continue with online instruction through the conclusion of the semester. I strongly encourage you to remain committed to your studies and remain engaged with your classes.

We have put together a Student Resources page on our website with FAQs and other resources to help you transition. In addition, information about our Center for Career and Academic Planning (CCAP) advisors, tutoring services, library resources, and OIT support can be found there. While we are forced to move to a more virtual environment, it does not change the fact that these and many other College resources remain available to you.

Ours is a community that comes together in times like these, and I appreciate your patience and cooperation as we move forward in this new way.

We will keep you apprised of any additional updates in the coming days and weeks. Stay healthy, stay smart, and stay in touch. If there is anything I can do for you, any questions or concerns you have, please do not hesitate to ask.

Finally, I would ask you continue to look out for each other and do your best to look out for those around you who most need your help.

Kind regards,

Gerard J. Rooney, Ph.D.
President