President Maxey's Weekly update - Sept. 18

Dear Maroons -

Today mid-September, I remain cautiously optimistic as we count down toward midterm exams, crisp weather and ultimately, Thanksgiving break.

Soon, we will send news of our plans for the Spring semester. We are working through those scenarios now and I appreciate the recommendations I have heard from many. For now, let me give you an update on our status this week. 

Regarding COVID-19

Today, September 18, there are nine active COVID-19 cases at Roanoke College. We continue to test students, faculty and staff and will do so throughout the semester as needed. Remember, following the rules allows us to stay on campus. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is not going away and the rules don’t change. This means everyone must wear their mask in all designated areas — keep 6 feet apart whenever possible — wash their hands frequently and avoid ALL parties and large gatherings. Following these simple rules will hopefully keep those of you who have chosen to be on campus here. This is important to everyone who has made that choice. And, it is important for me to see you all here.

Here is another thing that is REALLY important. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or have taken a COVID-19 test somewhere else besides our health center and tested positive, you have to let someone at Roanoke College know, even if you live off campus. This is critical. It’s critical for your safety, and the safety of your friends and peers. Also, your professors need to know in order to ensure you are properly excused from classes. The College can provide you with additional care and support your needs even when you live off campus. Please reach out to Student Health and Counseling Services at (540) 375-2286. 

I want to commend our teams in Student Health and Counseling, Campus Safety, Residence Life & Housing and Student Affairs for working so hard to keep us safe and healthy. By following the rules you respect everyone who is working hard to ensure we are well.

Everyone in Student Health and Counseling has spent most days and nights, seven days a week, working with students, administering tests and being a constant source of positivity along the way. Thank you team — you are doing great work! 

All of us on campus remain concerned about the emotional demands created by COVID-19.The uncertainty it creates is unsettling. We all have some version of extra fears and pressures, and I want to ask everyone to take extra care of themselves and look out for each other in a more concerted way during this time. In addition to our counseling staff, we have some great resources like Therapy Assistance Online (TAO) Self-Help and Let’s Talk Drop-in Counseling. 

As always, you may visit Return to Roanoke for answers to questions you may have. You will find a dashboard on our website roanoke.edu/covid19 where we will report Roanoke College COVID-19 cases on a weekly basis. Questions may also be sent to questions@roanoke.edu or you may leave us a voicemail with your question by calling 540-375-2244.

Be well Maroons,

President Mike Maxey