Dec. 29, 2021: Preparing for January return to campus

Dear Spartans,

As university leaders continue to monitor COVID-19 cases during this holiday season and the presence of the Omicron variant, I wanted to provide a few reminders and updates regarding our upcoming return to campus and start of the spring 2022 semester.

We continue to review data on the number of cases, as well as other key metrics, both statewide and specific to mid-Michigan and campus. We also continue coordinating with local and state leaders about the situation. At this time, the rate of spread in mid-Michigan is similar to what it was when we concluded the fall 2021 semester. Throughout this past semester, our campus protocols worked effectively and the classroom continues to be a safe environment for teaching and learning. As such, we are continuing with our plans to start the spring 2022 semester in person on Jan. 10.

There are several actions you can and should take to ensure we have a safer start to the new semester:

  • As we communicated earlier this month, all students, faculty and staff are required to have a booster shot as part of the university’s vaccine requirement. Getting a booster is an important step in protecting yourself and those around you from becoming seriously ill.
  • Masks have been helpful in reducing the spread of COVID-19, so please continue wearing face coverings indoors. On campus, face coverings indoors will remain a requirement. We also urge everyone to follow good public health practices, such as washing your hands frequently and masking in crowded spaces.
  • We also recommend all returning students, faculty and staff test for COVID-19 before returning to campus for classes or work. If you need help finding a test, the state of Michigan has good resources for many options. Once back in East Lansing, we have testing options at Spartan Stadium and through our Early Detection Program. This is a good time to sign up for the Early Detection Program if you haven’t already.

I appreciate each of you and your commitment to these needed precautions and safety measures. The pandemic also has taken a toll on our mental health, and the news of the Omicron variant and the uncertainty around it may cause additional stress. I hope you are practicing self-care during the winter break, including eating healthfully, exercising and getting plenty of sleep.

More information related to booster verifications will be shared in January. Until then, please continue checking https://msu.edu/together-we-will/ for the latest information, and take this time to receive your booster as soon as you are eligible.

My deepest wishes to you for a healthy and successful 2022.

Sincerely,

Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. (he/him)
President