Dear Voiland College Students,
Happy New Year!
Today’s WSU Town Hall provided a lot of information about what this upcoming semester will be like for WSU students, and I would like to address some important items that directly relate to our Voiland College students in Pullman before classes start next week.
Most importantly, we want you to have a safe and successful start to 2022.
I know many of you are anxious about the weather and travel. The weather in Pullman and the regional mountain passes is presenting many challenges for those trying to get here by the time classes resume on Monday. WSU has compiled links to current pass conditions for you to check before traveling to Pullman. Your safety is of utmost importance to us, so please check the roads before you go, follow safe winter driving tips, and take it slow.
For the first week of classes only, I have asked faculty within the Voiland College who have the capability to video their lectures to make recorded videos available to students online. Most may be able to, some may not. (Please also note that classes taught by faculty outside of the Voiland College may not provide this service.)
Please reach out to your instructors directly if your travel situation will not permit you to reach Pullman by the time your classes begin so they can work to accommodate your situation.
As noted at today’s WSU Town Hall, Spring Semester 2022 will be taught face to face. Many of your courses will have in-person attendance expectations. These exist because the faculty members believe your active participation in the class will benefit your learning. While class attendance is a critical component of every student’s success, it must be balanced with your health and safety.
It is vital that we take care of ourselves and each other during this time.
If you are sick, stay home. Get tested for COVID-19. Immediately contact your instructors and advisor to develop a course of action that will allow you to safely continue your learning.
If you find yourself struggling, please reach out for help. In addition to your advisor and instructors, WSU has many resources available to you, including:
WSU Cougar Health Services – mental and physical health student services; COVID-19 testing and support
WSU Student Affairs – community resources and support for WSU students
WSU COVID-19 – The latest information about WSU COVID-19 policies and support.
WSU Alert – Sign up to receive notifications for campus closures and other emergencies.
Remember, you are not alone. Our “Cougs Help Cougs” community of support is always here to help you make this semester a safe and successful one.
Go Cougs!
Mary Rezac (she/her/hers)
Dean, Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture
Washington State University
Email: mary.rezac@wsu.edu
Phone: 509-335-5593