October 15, 2020 | 12:33 PM

 

 

To: Graduate Students, Graduate Faculty, Directors of Graduate Studies, Program Directors, Program Administrators, LGS Staff

 

Dear LGS Community, 

 

Earlier today, President Fenves announced the University's plans for the spring 2021 term. You can find that message here. Those plans are based on projected COVID-19 caseloads, flu predictions, and other variables, and seek to ensure the campus community's health and safety. I write to share updates and details on what these plans mean for LGS. 

 

Academic Calendar

The spring 2021 academic term will begin on January 25, classes will conclude on May 3, and the term will end on May 15. Information about commencement is forthcoming. This modified format will eliminate spring break. Students should consult their spring course schedules for specific information regarding in-person or remote formats. International students studying remotely should monitor Emory’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) page for the most recent travel and visa updates, and stay in contact with ISSS advisors. In all cases, LGS will continue to observe public health precautions and the student, faculty and staff Community Compact terms. 

 

Campus Density

To maintain low density on campus, current LGS policies concerning campus density will remain in effect for the spring term until further notice. LGS staff will continue to work remotely, and all LGS events, including recruitment, interviews, and campus visits, will be held virtually. We encourage faculty, staff, and students to work and learn remotely, where possible.

 

Mental Health and Well-being

As we continue to navigate the pandemic's disruptions, it is critical to address students’ health, safety, and well-being. Students who are having difficulties and need support are encouraged to access the range of services that Emory provides during crisis and non-crisis. For a detailed description of support available to students, visit the Crisis Support webpage.

 

Additionally, Emory students can access care through Emory Student Telehealth, which provides free, 24/7 access to licensed medical and mental health professionals.  

 

We encourage students to take time as often as possible to decompress and re-energize. It is essential to prioritize self-care and activities that promote renewal and opportunities to reconnect. Emory offers stress management resources to assist in building routines that help reduce stress.

 

Testing and Onboarding

At this time, University policy requires all graduate students returning to campus this spring for any amount of time, including those who were on campus in the fall, to take a COVID-19 test and complete the University's Spring Onboarding Process. The University will provide more information about Spring Onboarding in the coming weeks. 

 

For the remainder of the fall term and throughout the spring term, graduate students have access to additional COVID-19 testing at any time, as capacity permits. Testing is available Monday through Friday at the Emory Conference Center Hotel (ECCH) by appointment. Visit the Emory Forward Student Testing page for more scheduling information.

 

Flu Shots

Flu shots are free for all Emory students. Due to the pandemic's added complexities, this year, more than ever, public health and infectious disease experts recommend flu shots for all individuals over six months of age. Visit Emory's Fight Against the Flu page for dates and locations. 

 

Graduate Student Town Hall

President Fenves, Interim Provost Jan Love, and the GSGA have invited all graduate and professional students to attend a special spring 2021 presentation on Friday, October 16, from 11:45 AM-12:15 PM (EDT). You may click this link to join.

 

Throughout this pandemic, I have been grateful for how our community members have positively addressed technical, practical, and personal challenges with ingenuity and flexibility. I am optimistic that we will continue to move successfully ahead together. Our community’s positive engagement inspires me, and I remain so very proud of all you are doing to sustain the excellence that is LGS.

 

As always, LGS is here for you. Please contact us, visit the LGS website, and read the LGS weekly newsletter to stay informed and connected. 

 

Stay safe, stay masked, stay distanced!

 

With you, with care, 

 

-Lisa

 

Lisa A. Tedesco, Ph.D.


Vice Provost for Academic Affairs – Graduate Studies


Dean, James T. Laney School of Graduate Studies

Professor, Rollins School of Public Health


Emory University