Dear Colgate Community,
The morning skies are getting darker, and they make the early a.m. dog-walking sessions a little less inviting. But I try to remind myself that I shouldn’t complain — he’s the one who is forced to go outside in all seasons to do his business. Besides, the clocks will dial back soon, and we will get a new lease on an hour of sunlight.
Meanwhile, the hard work we’re doing together so that we can be together continues. Thanks to you, we have just one student in isolation, eight students in close-contact quarantine, and four in travel-related quarantine. Well done.
The statewide, nationwide, and worldwide pictures are a little more bleak. The New York State travel advisory list now includes 40 states. Quoting the guidance, “This is based upon a seven day rolling average of positive tests in excess of 10%, or number of positive cases exceeding 10 per 100,000 residents.” New York’s own Red Zone focus areas have a positivity rate of 2.91% while the rest of the state stands at 1.25%.
So what are we to do in response to all of the data? Like watching the clock on darkening mornings, we will keep our commitment even when we might prefer to pull the blankets over our heads and ignore reality. We can find comfort in our companions and support systems, four-legged or otherwise. We should stay active. We must remember that there will come a day when these numbers will roll back and we will all enjoy a bit more sunshine.
Keep at it, Colgate. Watch for spring 2021 plans coming tomorrow, and I will talk to you on Friday.
Laura H. Jack
Vice President for Communications
Take Note
Our flu clinics have been exceedingly popular this year, and Student Health Services is working hard to arrange additional opportunities. We’ve added a clinic this coming Monday, Oct. 26, 4:30–7:15 p.m. Sign up now to reserve your spot. More clinics will be scheduled in November.
What is the difference between influenza (flu) and COVID-19? Symptoms for both illnesses are similar. Check out the CDC website for more information on differentiating between the two.
The Max A. Shacknai Center for Outreach and Volunteerism has compiled this handy spreadsheet listing voting deadlines in all 50 states. Make your plan to vote now!
Students who need to use a vehicle for mail services package pickup only may park in one of three specially designated 15-minute spaces in the Gate House lot. Students must add their Colgate parking permit number to their package pickup reservation form — campus safety will be cross-checking permit numbers with scheduled pickup times. (Travel alone, per the Commitment to Community Health.)
A Closing Thought
Sometimes, a picture is worth 1,000 gourds: students take part in last weekend’s Fall Fest activities.
Upcoming Events
Career Exploration Week: Applied Hard Sciences Industry Panel
Oct. 21
6:15 p.m.
Hear from alumni who work in the applied hard sciences industry. Learn about the very basics of the industry and how their liberal arts degrees support their work.
"Bature: Lessons on Cultural and Religious Competence from Nigeria" with Dorsey Spencer
Oct. 22
11:40 a.m.
The Heretics Club is exploring the theme of race and religion with Dean Dorsey Spencer. All are welcome.
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