Hello Norse Nation. As you learned from Provost Cecil’s most recent update, COVID cases are sharply rising in the Commonwealth and the region.I know it is very stressful to see the pandemic shifting again to the red zone. Please remember that this is not uncharted territory. Unlike the spring of 2020, we know how to navigate the pandemic.We have measures in place and plans if the university needs to pivot. We know how to safely gather to learn and engage as a campus, and that is what we will continue to do through the fall semester… even if we have to social distance.While we know how to be flexible amid the pandemic, the Delta variant is a different, stronger strain. More and more people are testing positive, even those who are vaccinated.It is easy to get disheartened at a time like this, but I challenge Norse Nation to stay positive and focus on the things we all can do to help our campus.The one big ask we have for you… self-report a positive COVID case. It can be a scary to get that test result, and you do not have to face it by yourself.When you share a positive COVID test with NKU, it kicks off our internal process to make sure you have the support and the care you need during quarantine.Student Affairs is notified, so they can help you contact your professors and minimize disruption to your classes.Housing is made aware, so your meals and other necessities are delivered to your door. Health, Counseling and Student Wellness is available to answer any questions or talk through any concerns.I want to emphasize this…. When you are quarantining, you are not alone.Your Norse family will come to action to help in any way you need. You will have assistance, so your job and courses are not impacted.But we cannot provide a support system until you take the first step to let the university know you have COVID.This is not a time to be concerned with what people may think. The only way we eliminate any stigma is to approach this as a straightforward health issue.We need every member of our campus community to remember to be a little more flexible and understanding during this semester.We do not know what is happening at home for anyone, so let us be kind, considerate and supportive.I am confident in NKU’s ability to rise up and meet this newest phase of the pandemic. Our campus is agile and resilient. We are Norse Nation, and we are moving Onward Together.So please take care, stay healthy and let us make Fall 2021 one of the brightest in NKU history.
