A Message from the President
Gratitude for Our Engaged BSU Community
As we come to the end of an eventful week, I would like to thank all of you who participated in the Virtual Town Hall Meeting. We continue our efforts to respond to COVID-19 Pandemic and we thank the leaders of the Emergency Management Team – Vice President for Administration & Finance Anthony Savia, Acting Vice President for Student Affairs April Johnson and Wellness Center Director Dr. Rita Wutoh – for their guidance of the campus community during this pandemic and their response to questions during the Virtual Town Hall.
We covered a range of topics in the Town Hall, including the pass/fail option, graduation requirements as well as refunds and credits for students, faculty and staff. I’m today pleased to share that the decision and process has been finalized to refund or prorate parking fees for faculty and staff for the remainder of the fiscal year. For those enrolled in automatic payroll deductions, the withholding ended with the Wednesday, April 15 paycheck. Those who paid directly should expect a refund check mailed to their homes within the next four to six weeks. Refunds will range between $23 to $56 dollars depending on the amount you paid based on your start date. Refunds will be processed through the State Comptroller's therefore we ask for your patience for the extended time it takes to issue the refund.
In addition, I again want to especially thank the faculty for their continued efforts to fulfill our academic mission and ensure students are progressing through this academic year. I answered additional questions this week at the Faculty Senate meeting and additional information and answers have been posted to the FAQs. Please note that additional teaching and learning supports are available for faculty through the university’s Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. Information about CETL support can be found in the April 10 message. Faculty are also encouraged to take advantage of the resources offered within Blackboard by Academic Computing. The Provost is working to develop even more resources as we continue to plan for enhanced remote teaching and learning programs.
The Division of Student Affairs is doing a great job of engaging the student body in a strong, vibrant virtual community. Last night, the students hosted a virtual royal court pageant as part of the election activities for our student leaders. I would like to thank New Student Experiences Assistant Director, Thomasina Boardley, and the entire Office of Student Life team for continuing to provide exciting virtual opportunities to connect our students during this time.
Unfortunately, we received notification this week that two additional members of the Bowie State community have tested positive for COVID-19. This makes a total of six who have been confirmed with the disease. All are reported to be recovering at home. We extend best wishes for their well-being.
Finally, I wish each and every member of our campus community continued good health over this weekend.