March 15, 2020 – A message from President Tom Insko

Dear EOU Community,

Thank you for your calm and measured response to the uncertainty that has unfolded over the last several weeks as our institution, state and country respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The stress that comes with the end of winter term and finals was already upon us, and the news of the COVID-19 spreading in Oregon only added to existing pressures. The social distancing guidance from the State and then the closure of K-12 schools left us all worried about our families and friends, and questioning how we can do our part in trying to contain the spread of this virus. 

Our community’s response over the last week made me proud. 

Our Emergency Leadership Team, Crisis Management Team, faculty and staff worked diligently to establish plans to make sure our students continue to have access to their academic programs, and are making necessary modifications to adapt to new guidelines issued by state public health officials. Our students showed resilience and composure. They supported each other by taking precautions as directed while staying the course to finish the term. I am saddened by the direct and adverse impact each of us is experiencing, but I am inspired by the display of altruism—the unselfish devotion to the welfare of others.

As we enter finals week and spring break, our focus remains on continuing to carry out our mission while also doing our part in mitigating the spread of this virus. As you know, all finals will be conducted remotely. We are also following the guidance of state and federal public health officials. We strongly advise against extended travel during spring break. It is recommended that the less travel the better off our entire country will be in the long-term.  EOU is keeping our residence halls, food services and our university health clinic open. 

We urge you to take this seriously while also continuing to remain calm. We will send updates to the EOU community as new information becomes available, and we will continue to inform you should we need to make any additional modifications to Spring Term. Please check email regularly for new information. For a reminder of best practices, please go to this link: eou.edu/coronavirus.

As I stated earlier, I am very proud of and thankful for our EOU community, especially during this time. It is our resilience and compassion for one another that makes this such a special place to study, work and live.

Thank you for doing your part in this now global pandemic and for your commitment to the health, well-being and education of everyone on our campus.

If you need anything during this time or have questions, the entire EOU leadership team is here to support you. Your health and safety is our number one priority.

Thank you,

Tom Insko

President

EOU