Aug. 1, 2023: Classes will not meet on Feb. 13, 2024
Highlights:
- Classes will not meet on Feb. 13, 2024, for most students; planning underway for a one-year remembrance event
- Berkey Hall made available for faculty and staff with existing offices who want to use the space this fall
- MSU Public Art on Campus Committee to gather community feedback for memorial
Dear Spartans,
As we prepare for our next academic year and collective return to campus, I have appreciated the focus from all corners of our community on healing and fostering an environment in which we feel safe, welcomed, and supported. Whether you have remained on campus this summer, are returning to MSU after a few weeks or months away, or are new to our Spartan family, we recognize that many continue to process the events of last February in unique ways.
One decision we have made is that classes will not meet on Feb. 13, 2024. The university is planning a remembrance event for this day that will incorporate input and feedback from the Spartan community, including those who were most directly impacted. While classes will not meet, the university will remain open on this day to support students and our community. Classes will meet again on Feb. 14, but assignments and exams will not be due on this date either. Assignments and exams may be scheduled on Feb 15 and continuing through the remainder of the semester. Additional information on student exceptions and class instructions are in the FAQ below and we will share more information with you as the planning moves forward.
I also want to update you on the status of Berkey Hall. After conversations and input from those who hold offices in the building, we have decided to make the space available for faculty, academic staff, graduate students, and support staff with existing offices starting this fall. Importantly, students and employees who do not want to reenter the space are not required to do so and may seek out alternative options for the fall through their academic college or unit. Individual colleges will share more information directly with faculty, staff and graduate students who use this space. As we shared previously, we intend to resume classes in Berkey Hall starting in the spring, following some renovations to the building.
Finally, I want to provide a brief update on the memorial being established in honor and remembrance of those we lost and those who have been affected by the tragedy. The university is establishing a group within MSU’s Public Art on Campus Committee that will include representation from students, faculty, staff, and the community. The group will define an inclusive process for gathering input through the fall semester, and more information will be shared in the coming months about ways to engage and provide feedback.
Spartans are defined by their commitment to support and look out for one another in service of the common good. I am grateful to be part of such a special and caring community and, together, we will continue our journey toward an environment that is safe, welcoming and supportive for all.
Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
Interim President
MSU Research Foundation Professor
FAQ regarding Feb. 13, 2024, Campus and Class Activity
What does this mean for students?
For most students, this means classes will not be held, assignments will not be due on this day, and exams will not be held. Classes will meet again on Feb. 14, but assignments and exams will not be due on this date either. The university will remain open to support the needs of our students, including dining halls, mental health support services, recreational sports facilities and CATA transportation services.
There may be some instances in which classes for graduate and professional students may need to be held for accreditation and degree requirements, and students will hear from their respective colleges regarding those limited instances.
What does this mean for faculty and academic staff?
Faculty and academic staff are expected to not hold classes or exams or have assignments due on Feb. 13, 2024, with some exceptions for graduate and professional programs that may need to meet for certification and graduation requirements. Additionally, while classes will meet on Feb. 14, assignments and exams will not be due on this day. Assignments and exams may be scheduled on Feb 15 and continuing through the remainder of the semester.
What does this mean for support staff?
Since the university will be in normal operations, employees are required to report to work, or they may request leave time as appropriate to observe the day. It is the university’s expectation that supervisors be flexible with approval of time off for those who need to step away from work on this day and that they extend grace and empathy to colleagues.