Message from the Vice Provost for Student Affairs

January 11, 2021

Dear Students,

As was announced on the 8th, the university has decided to resume in-person activities for the spring semester. To those students who are choosing to come to Baltimore over the next few weeks, we cannot wait to welcome you. And to those of you who have decided to stay at home, we will continue to support you virtually in all the ways we can. Whatever your decision for the spring semester, we trust you will make the best decision for yourself and your circumstances.

I know, however, that your decision may come with a mix of emotions. You may be excited; you may be experiencing fear or uncertainty about this new semester – and you are not alone in this. If you will be coming to campus, I assure you we have worked hard to create an environment where you can feel safe and prepared to take on the unique challenges that this semester may present.

Over the next few months, you will be receiving regular emails from Student Affairs to help you navigate everything from safely utilizing transportation in the Baltimore area and meeting as a student organization to places on-campus students can access and how the O’Connor Recreation Center will function. These brief communications will break down the lengthy Return to Campus Guide into digestible tips that will help you protect yourself and the JHU community, both mentally and physically. If you ever want to refer to a previous message, or think you may have missed one, they will all be archived here for your convenience.

For those of you who will be fully virtual this spring, please know that we care deeply about your success and your staying connected to campus life. Staff have worked to ensure that you will have opportunities to engage with your peers – both those who are in Baltimore and others who will be virtual. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything. No matter where you are, the Student Affairs team is here for you!

We look forward to starting the spring semester, and we hope you know that there is an entire Blue Jay community here to support you.

Stay safe and be well.

Sincerely,

Alanna W. Shanahan
Vice Provost for Student Affairs