As I write to you on this beautiful morning after a long (and hopefully relaxing) weekend, there is no doubt that spring is in the air. Here on the hill, we have just five weeks of classes left in the spring semester. We can do it!
This week, thanks to our partnership with the South Central Healthcare Coalition, we will begin a small-scale rollout of on-campus vaccinations. These initial on-campus doses (Johnson & Johnson) will be prioritized for students with underlying health conditions and those who work as essential employees as defined by the State of Minnesota. Students received a survey about vaccine interest from the Gustavus Health Service last week and members of the community will continue to receive updates about vaccine availability as plans develop.
We are hopeful that we will be able to provide more on-campus vaccinations in the coming weeks. In the meantime, please remember that all Minnesotans over the age of 16 are now eligible for the vaccine, and members of the Gustavus community are encouraged to use the College’s Vaccine Resources webpage to learn more about appointments through medical clinics, pharmacies, or local public health organizations.
On Friday, April 9, at 3 p.m., Gustavus Health Service Director Heather Dale and Minnesota Department of Health representative Cindy Jackson will offer a “vaccine myths and facts” information session for members of the Gustavus community. Questions can be submitted in advance to g-covidresponse@gustavus.edu. I hope you can take part in this important conversation.
Throughout the academic year, our community has been diligent in following public health guidelines, reporting symptoms and contacts, and doing our part to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Cases in Minnesota are currently rising. With one month to go in our semester, we cannot let down our guard. We must continue to maintain physical distancing, properly wear our facial coverings, and refrain from high-risk social gatherings.
Gusties, this week I ask you to recommit to finishing the semester strong inside and outside the classroom. Let’s embrace the warmer weather, continue to look out for one another, and keep working together to minimize the spread of COVID-19.
Until next week, keep up the good work, Gusties!
Yours in community,
President Bergman