November 16, 2020
Dear Students,
What a strange trip we've been on these past nine months. As this semester began, we were all concerned about COVID-19 outbreaks on campus. Many of us were worried that we would not make it to the Thanksgiving break before we had to send all of you home and finish the semester remotely. Well, we made it THANKS TO YOU! The faculty realize that you have sacrificed a great deal to keep the campus community safe from COVID-19. The social distancing, not being able to sit with your friends at Dexter’s for lunch, all the missed performances, fall and now winter sports cancellations, and even commiserating during all those science labs. You've given up a ton. This is not what you imagined college to be.
Your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. Your actions have kept everyone in the College community safe. Your actions have kept everyone safe in the surrounding community, whether you’ve been at home, in Potsdam or at our Watertown location. Your efforts and sacrifices undoubtedly kept people out of the hospital. We know this was not easy to do. College isn’t just about learning. It’s about socializing both in and outside the classroom. It’s about challenging yourself. This semester has been particularly challenging.
Academics can earn many things, but the highest honor you can receive is the respect of your colleagues. We the faculty of SUNY Potsdam will always give you, our students who sacrificed so much this semester our highest respect for your diligence and perseverance in keeping our community safe. We do not underestimate what you have gone through to pursue your goals and keep everyone safe. In these trying times in our nation and world, you have become an inspiration to what can be done if we work towards a common goal. Whether you’re a commuting student or a student in residence, we wish you a safe trip home, a relaxing break, and all the best as we finish out this semester.
Sincerely,
Your grateful SUNY Potsdam Faculty and Staff