We have completed the first week of classes after returning from Spring Break and marked another week of working remotely. Students have been engaged and understanding as they continued their academic activities, many in a new format. I realize there were monumental challenges for everyone, but a number of people have shared inspirational stories of support and assistance from faculty colleagues, fellow students and staff members throughout the university. This is deeply appreciated but not surprising. That is the norm at Northwestern. It is especially gratifying that our faculty are providing such effective and compassionate support to students in these difficult times. It is still my firm belief that we will be a stronger, more vibrant university as we emerge from these most difficult times in our history. Thanks all of you for your patience and perseverance, and please be safe and take care of yourselves and your loved ones.
Earlier this week, we announced a modified Academic Affairs Grading Policy for Spring 2020 (see below). We mentioned in the email that we would continue to provide additional information and guidance to students, faculty and advisors on the COVID-19 Grading Policy. [FAQs for COVID-19 Academic Affairs Grading Policy and COVID-19 Grading Policy Spring 2020] This is additional guidance with answers to some initial questions regarding the policy. We will continue to develop appropriate documents and guidance and keep you informed as that process progresses.
NSU Executive Vice President Dr. Marcus Jones left the university in late February for his new role as Executive Vice President of Operations for the University of Louisiana System. Dr. Jones is doing an outstanding job in that position and has certainly been a vital resource in our response to COVID-19. As you will remember, we announced at the time of his departure that his executive vice president duties would be temporarily assigned to other personnel.
Because of these extraordinary circumstances and future uncertainty, the vice-presidency vacated by Dr. Jones will not be filled. Instead, Pat Jones will continue to supervise Business Affairs, Dr. Greg Handel will continue to oversee International Recruiting, and Jennifer Kelly will assume the additional duties of supervising the Physical Plant, Capital Outlay, Plant Services and Environmental Health, Safety and Compliance and University Police. She will maintain supervision of the University Auxiliary Services areas. Thanks to Dr. Darlene Williams and Mrs. Frances Conine for the additional supervisory responsibilities that they assumed over the past month and their assistance in the transition of these functions to Mrs. Kelly.
Please continue to monitor our website, www.nsula.edu/covid-19 for updates. Thank you for your extraordinary efforts, and please let me know if I may assist you in any way.
Sincerely,
Chris
