Hello, Colgate Community.
We are one week into quarantine, with a little more than a week to go! These messages will continue for the duration, and while I know that they are a compelling read, there’s something else that you should be reviewing regularly: the information at colgate.edu/covid19.
Revisit the particulars of our four Gates, and review the report of the Task Force on the Reopening of Campus. This is the foundational document for our efforts. When we signed the commitment, we agreed to abide by the plans that come from that report, so it’s a good idea to know what’s inside.
The world is watching. President Casey, Alex Tran ’22, AJ DeSantis ’23, and Mariama Lemon ’24 appeared on CBS Today: Saturday last weekend to tell the story of our universal quarantine. They did a beautiful job of representing the University and reminding us that we are doing this together so that we can be together.
Finally, I’d like to thank the residents of the University Court Apartments and 113 Broad for their signs thanking the volunteers, and Lindsey Walden ’21 for her thoughtful note. Your appreciation means so much to us all.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Laura H. Jack
Vice President for Communications
Take Note
As of midnight, we had 23 positive student cases and 101 close contacts. These individuals are all in quarantine or isolation. Numbers are well within our expected range of infection, as you will note on the HAT dashboard.
Quick outdoor time reminder: students are doing a great job wearing masks but remember to stay 6 feet apart, even outside. That means Idris Elba or Jane Lynch should be able to lay down head-to-toe between you and your friends. I know it doesn’t feel natural, but neither does a universal quarantine.
The counseling center’s popular small-group sessions will continue via telehealth — along with a few new groups to support students during this unique time. Most begin the week of 9/7. If you’re interested in processing thoughts, experiences, and emotions with peers and a counselor in a confidential setting, check out the weekly group therapy schedule. Times are subject to change based on interest and availability. Call 315-228-7385 if you’d like to know more.
As September begins, HR reminds employees to update their work schedules online. Any days that employees will be on campus, even volunteering, should be included. Employees should also complete their daily health screening on those days. Both forms are conveniently located on the portal. Supervisors are required to check the dashboard daily and follow up with employees not meeting on-campus reporting requirements.
A Closing Thought
Give everyone the benefit of the doubt. A lot of cooped-up time can bring out the worst in people. We all will have moments when we are not at our best, so it is important to move with grace through blowups, not show up for every argument, and not hold grudges or belabor disagreements. Everyone is doing the best they can to make it through this.
Colgate Together Events
Waste Less and Recycle Right Workshop
September 1
5–6 p.m.
Learn how to minimize waste and recycle right on Colgate’s campus.
13 Days: Decolonization Processes in University Museums
September 2
Noon–1 p.m.
In collaboration with the 13 Days of Education, join the University Museums staff for a virtual event to discuss the decolonization processes in the University Museums.