June 22, 2020
Welcome to UCF for the virtual Summer B semester. I hope this message finds you healthy and well.
College is a period for personal and academic growth, and there is an engaged campus community here to support you during your time at UCF and beyond. I know the pandemic means your experience is different than you imagined, but our commitment to your success is unwavering — we are so happy to call you a Knight.
While UCF is operating remotely this summer, we continue to plan for a return to UCF in the fall that is focused on the health and well-being of all members of our UCF community. It is important to remember that our return to campus is dependent on everyone’s commitment to doing their part to curb further spread of COVID-19.
The past several months presented challenges for all of us, and I recognize that you are eager for a return to regular life and social activities. However, “normal” looks different right now, with COVID-19 continuing to pose a risk in any public place where people are present, and most especially in settings where people are not wearing face coverings and practicing physical distancing.
Remember what drew you to UCF: The desire to further your education, be an active and engaged member of a community of peers, and achieve personal and professional success.
As a Knight, you decided to pursue a dynamic and engaged experience that connects you to others through student organizations, athletic events, and many other opportunities to bring you together with your UCF community.
Your pursuits are still possible during this period of remote instruction, and there are resources at UCF to help you be successful and stay engaged. We are here to support your well-being.
While these activities will undoubtedly look different in the fall, they may not exist at all if we do not each take personal responsibility for consistently protecting ourselves and one another from COVID-19 no matter where we are.
That is why we must continue to follow these simple steps:
- Wear face coverings indoors and outdoors where a six-foot distance from others is not possible.
- Continue physical distancing and avoid gatherings of 10 or more.
- Wash your hands frequently and properly — and with UCF spirit!
- Avoid touching your face.
- Stay home from any event if you are sick and stay away from others who are sick.
We care about one another at UCF, and that spirit will carry us through COVID-19. You will start to see the message “Armor Up, Knights!” our call to action to take COVID-19 prevention steps and fight the spread.
One additional way to protect those around you is to get tested if you find yourself experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Testing is important for tracking the virus and preventing further community spread.
UCF will keep you regularly updated via your Knights email and the university’s coronavirus website, and we also will be using the UCF Mobile app to share information. You can send any questions to covid19questions@ucf.edu.
I know that this summer looks different than you envisioned, but I also know that our students are talented, thoughtful and resilient. We will get through this “new normal” together.
You have my heartfelt wishes for a safe, successful summer. Charge On!
Maribeth Ehasz, Ph.D.
Vice President, Student Development and Enrollment Services