Update for Parents from President Gogue

Update for Parents from President Gogue

Update for parents from President Gogue about spring semester and COVID-19

Dear Auburn Parents,

Together, as a nation and as members of the Auburn Family, we are facing a time of great uncertainty. The coronavirus pandemic is bringing rapid changes to the way we live and interact with others, and as a result, it has changed the way Auburn fulfills its instructional mission.

Our two guiding principles since the beginning and going forward are twofold: ensuring the safety and well-being of students, faculty and staff, and ensuring remote classes have the same level of rigorous instruction to enable your student to stay on track academically.

Earlier today, we announced the decision to extend remote instruction through the end of the semester and postpone spring commencement. By reducing the number of individuals on campus, we continue to promote as much social distancing as possible to help slow the spread of the virus.

These were difficult decisions made with careful thought as well as input from students, faculty and staff. While I am disappointed that our May commencement ceremonies are postponed, I look forward to celebrating our graduates at a future occasion. The university will send information in the coming weeks about commencement plans.

Members of the Auburn faculty are truly exceptional. They have swiftly risen to the challenges before them — and we anticipate more challenges along the way. In fact, everyone in our campus community has pulled together in extraordinary fashion.

Regardless, there are many concerns from parents and students regarding the complexities of college life that have been upended because of the pandemic. Our teams, from all facets of the university and community, are working diligently to answer your questions as quickly as possible.

Faculty members remain committed to your student’s success. As such, if your student experiences difficulties with remote coursework or has other academic issues that need attention, please encourage them to contact their instructor.

Decisions will be made and communicated soon about Auburn’s plans for summer classes and programs. While we always put student, faculty and staff safety first, we must ensure we remain aligned with the most up-to-date guidance from local, state and federal officials.

Finally, if your student lives off campus and remains in Auburn, we have asked them to not come to campus — including green spaces and Samford Lawn. We have also urged all students, regardless of where they are, to practice good hygiene and social distancing.

Any decisions or new information will be communicated to your student as soon as possible. I encourage you also to subscribe to email updates on the university’s COVID-19 information page and follow university social media accounts.

One of the most special characteristics of the Auburn Family is our solidarity in times of crisis and need. I am confident we will emerge from these trying times even stronger.

Sincerely,

Jay Gogue

Last updated: 03/20/2020