Message From the Chancellor (COVID-19 June 18, 2020 9:38 p.m.)

Pioneers Protecting Pioneers

Dear Colleagues,

I hope this message finds you well on the last day of this workweek. Again, I wish you peace and hope as you take time tomorrow to reflect on Juneteenth and all that it means for us right now.

As we look forward to the July 1 phase of the return to our campuses, I want you to know the facilities and risk management teams have been busy preparing. They have installed plexiglass shields in several areas, increased hand sanitizer stations, and posted new protocol signage on walls, doors, and floors. You will find it impossible to ignore our new normal upon your return.

To reiterate, everyone needs to wear a protective face covering anytime they may cross paths with others and cannot follow the 6-foot physical distancing guideline. It’s as simple as one, two, three to remember: 1) wear a protective face covering, 2) space out at least six feet, or 3) both. This effectively means that indoors we will wear masks unless alone in a personal office. To help us spread this message, we are launching a new campaign for our campuses: “Pioneers Protecting Pioneers.”

As we acclimate to our new normal, I am as grateful as ever for this #campuswithaheart culture that is patient and kind. While wearing protective face coverings on campus is the norm, some individuals who read lips may have difficulty understanding you through your mask. Others may have health reasons that make wearing face coverings difficult, and keep in mind that different abilities are not always visible.
What we are seeing from literally a world of evidence about this coronavirus is that we can mitigate the threat through a combination of proactive measure, contact tracing, and cooperation.

While our new normal poses inconveniences and new risks to mind, we have an inspired calling as educators, researchers, and leaders. I know we are as passionate about the Texas Woman’s mission and cannot imagine a world without this institution. Amidst the complexities of our current milieu, it is more essential than ever that we pull together and figure it out. It is a new world. Let’s learn—and empower others—to lead it.

With a pioneering spirit,

Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D.
Chancellor and President

P.S. For the latest information, check out TWU's COVID-19 webpage.

Page last updated 11:39 AM, September 13, 2024