A Message from President John Thrasher: Stay Vigilant against COVID-19

This message to all students, faculty and staff has been approved by John Thrasher, President of Florida State University.

Dear FSU Family,

Happy New Year and welcome to the spring semester! A new year always brings new hope, and we have many reasons to believe that 2021 will be a positive, productive and successful year for Florida State University.

As many of you return to campus, it is critical that you continue to take seriously your responsibility to help mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. While we are excited about the promise the new COVID-19 vaccine holds for returning to pre-pandemic normalcy, we are not there yet. Experts say it may be months before enough people can be vaccinated to halt the spread of the virus.

Cases are currently surging across the nation, including here in Leon County. FSU also has had a slight increase in positive cases in the past week, which was anticipated after the holidays. That’s why all classes will be taught remotely through Friday, Jan. 15. I strongly encourage all students, faculty and staff to remain vigilant during this period and throughout the spring semester in order to help prevent a spike in positive cases. We are looking forward to holding more face-to-face classes as well as providing more services and on-campus activities, but our plans depend on everyone doing their part.

We need you to take an active role in promoting a healthier and safer campus. If you feel sick or believe you may have been exposed to the virus, you must quarantine and get tested at the Tucker Center. And as always, wear a face mask, practice social distancing and wash your hands frequently, even if you have already had the virus.

Thank you for taking care of yourselves and looking out for the well-being of others as we continue to navigate these challenging times together. I wish you all the best for a healthy, safe and rewarding semester!

Sincerely,

John Thrasher