Campus Update
This information is archived as of May 26, 2020, and is saved here for reference. See latest health information.
April 27, 2020
Dear members of the Central family,
We continue to have much for which to be thankful. And, not a day goes by where I do not hear amazing stories of your work and your commitment to each other during these times. To be a part of the Central College family is truly a blessing to me.
Commencement
To our seniors, your families and the many of us who can’t wait to celebrate your accomplishments, Commencement 2020 will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27.
For those who requested, your caps, gowns and tassels will be sent to you in a few weeks at no charge to you. Then, at the completion of the semester, you will receive a separate mailing related to your specific academic achievements, including your diplomas. We look forward to seeing your pictures on social media; and, we do hope to see you in person again at our fall ceremony as well!
In the meantime, please enjoy this gift today.
Student Refunds
Students who studied on our international programs received credit and refund information at the end of last week. Contact Jeff Sanger, senior staff accountant, at sangerj@central.edu or 641-628-5161 with questions.
Healthy Environment
We have made a lot of changes in the past few weeks to ensure the health and safety of all in our community. The list is extensive and continues to grow. We’ve altered our cleaning procedures, food delivery, housing options, building security and much more.
In the weeks ahead we will be consulting and convening teams of medical and industry-specific experts, as we seek to advance our work toward maintaining a healthy environment for all and a gradual re-opening of the campus. We are thinking deeply about protocols and doing a lot of planning work. What does it mean to live safely and healthily when we are not on campus? How will we adjust to life when campus begins to fill with smiling faces and the energy of our Central family? And, how will we continue to keep our community safe if anyone should become ill?
There will be more to share in the weeks ahead. Be assured we care about Central, our community, and the health and well-being of all.
Board Affirmation
Saturday, the Board of Trustees put forth a resolution of commendation “to express deep gratitude for all Central College faculty and staff for their continued commitment to Central students and support of each other through the successful and unexpected transition to remote education as a result of the coronavirus pandemic after spring break during the spring 2020 semester.” It passed unanimously by acclimation.
We have an incredible group of trustee leaders. Like all of us, they are managing through their own professional and personal challenges presented by the pandemic, but they also are whole-heartedly committed to our mission and the long-term strength and success of the college.
Celebrations
- The celebration of faculty achievements and announcements of award recipients will be held virtually, at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 7.
- The annual Celebration of Student Scholarship and Inquiry will occur via the web this year. Student work will be available to view beginning April 30.
- If you missed the Dutchies last night, watch it now.
- Scholarships bring us all closer together. In honor of our annual Scholarship Celebration, check out this incredible video about the unique connections between Central scholarship recipients and our friends and donors.
Thank you for your continued strength and efforts to focus on the many positives.
Until next week,
Mark L. Putnam
President, Central College