Hello, Colgate Community.
On Sept. 7, I reported 58 student cases of COVID-19. Last Monday, we were at 52. After two full weeks of careful indoor masking and other measures, we have eight active student cases, with three students in isolation on campus. That’s significant progress, thanks to your diligence, and we send best wishes to those who are unable to join us in class right now.
The Task Force has reviewed the data from all of our positive cases to date this semester, including 21 close contacts who became positive. Contact tracing shows that those cases were from interactions that took place outside of class — whether that’s residential living, dining, or athletics. There is overlap in these activities, so the source of the infection is not always clear. But the data do not reveal classroom transmission in original cases or close contacts.
This information is particularly important as we head toward homecoming weekend and prepare to welcome guests on campus. We have proven that indoor masking and outdoor distancing work. So, as you plan your activities, keep the science in mind. Follow the gathering guidelines. Wear your mask indoors. (Due to New York State’s HERO act, this guidance is still in force.)
Alumni attendance at homecoming will be less than usual, and all event participants will submit proof of vaccination or of recovery within the last 90 days. But we must do our part, too, by continuing to honor our commitment to community health — it will be on full display.
My outline for this message says, “COVID numbers, transmission, commitment during homecoming, have fun.” I can now see the rhetorical disconnect between the COVID and the fun. But I stand by the sentiment. Please do make plans to ENJOY this weekend. You can see a list of events at colgate.edu/homecoming. The fact that we are together, that we are able to cheer our athletes in person and share the Colgate spirit, is another remarkable accomplishment.
See you then, but talk to you before.
Laura H. Jack
Vice President for Communications
Acting Chief Diversity Officer
Take Note
PERA will open the Raiders Den on Wednesday. Stop in and be among the first to view the new recreational space, located in the connector between Huntington Gymnasium and the Trudy Fitness Center. Alexis Goldman ’23 says, “From video games to ping pong and foosball, there isn’t another option like this on campus to hang out and spend time with friends.” For more information contact Julian Springer, director of physical education and recreation and chair of physical education.
Panhellenic recruitment has been rescheduled to Sept. 29–Oct. 3. Registration will stay open until Sept. 26. Panhellenic will distribute more information as we make plans, but feel free to reach out to panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu with any questions or concerns. We can’t wait to meet you all.
Three local businesses are operating popup locations in or next to the O’Connor Campus Center. All three accept bonus dollars (included with all premier meal plans) and ’Gate Cash. Credit cards are also accepted.
Upcoming Events
Living Writers virtual book discussion: Jonathan Dee’s The Locals
Sept. 20
7 p.m.
Join us for a faculty roundtable followed by informal conversation about Mr. Dee’s novel, set in the Berkshires between the two cataclysms of the early 2000s. Mr. Dee will read from his work on Thursday, Sept. 23, 4:30 p.m., in Love Auditorium. An audience Q&A and book-signing will follow. The link to join remotely can be found on the Living Writers website.
A Night with the Raiders
Sept. 23
7 p.m.
Regardless of whether or not you're able to cheer your Raiders on in person at homecoming next weekend, alumni, families, and friends of Colgate athletics are invited to tune into a coaches chat moderated by Vice President and Director of Athletics Nicki Moore.
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