Best Wishes For A Productive And Safe Semester

M. Katherine Banks
President

August 30, 2021

Howdy!
 
I am so pleased to welcome everyone to the fall semester of 2021.
 
The past 18 months have delivered unprecedented challenges, and I would like to thank our faculty and staff for their dedication and flexibility in response to the global pandemic.
 
I also applaud our students who last year demonstrated great resilience in carrying on as we all experienced a "new normal."
 
Finally, to those coming to campus for the first time, the Classes of '24 and '25, welcome! I am excited for you to experience campus life and our valued traditions.
 
Safety within established guidelines remains our top priority. We have a COVID-19 Contingency Council of experts who are closely monitoring the health and safety situation.
 
Although many things appear to be back to normal, we cannot let our guard down when it comes to combating the virus. COVID-19 testing, regardless of vaccination status, is required for all faculty, staff and students by Sept. 10. For more information, please visit the Texas A&M COVID-19 site. 
 
I spent the summer visiting college leadership teams for informative listening sessions. Later this fall, after the campus consulting review is complete and posted for review, I will revisit units across the university to discuss recommendations as we plan our path for the future.
 
Best wishes to each of you for a productive and safe semester.