Dean Sherman provides fall semester Phase 2 update

Important updates from the College of Business regarding OHIO’s phased reopening for fall 2020

Dear Business Bobcats,

Today, President Nellis shared the University’s plans for Phase 2 of the fall semester. I recognize that for many of you, this announcement means you have been asked to continue your studies online for the remainder of this calendar year. And although it comes as no consolation to those of you who are disappointed by this announcement, we remain hopeful that the University will be able to bring even more students back to campus for the spring semester. In order to successfully meet this goal, we all have to stay safe, be resilient, and persist in light of the greatest public health crisis in our lifetimes.

I want to reassure all students in our college that no matter the modality of your studies, our faculty and staff are here for you and remain committed to your academic, professional, and personal success. Ohio University continues its commitment to invest in additional technology and training, engaging virtual experiences, and support resources to create an outstanding student experience for you. Our faculty and staff are working hard to ensure you continue to thrive as a member of the Bobcat community, no matter where you are.

Ohio University and the College of Business have a long tradition of supporting student success. We have always worked together through obstacles and now, more than ever, it’s important to stay in touch with faculty, advisors, and peers who can help you through challenges you might be facing. Nothing is more important to us right now than removing hurdles and obstacles that may stand between you and your goals. Whether it’s academic support, scheduling, technical trouble, or questions about mental health, we’re here to support you. Please be sure to let us know, as soon as possible, if there's anything we can do to help you.

Finally, we know that many of you have questions about the days and weeks to come. Expect to hear from your faculty members and additional departments on campus in the coming days with specific details about what Phase 2 means for you. And, if you don’t receive the information you need, let us know about that, too. As hard as we’re working to communicate effectively and as quickly as possible, you can imagine that this is uncharted territory. Your feedback will help us learn how we can improve our efforts to support you and all students. If you have any feedback to share or questions, contact the College of Business’s Career & Student Success Center at cssc@ohio.edu.

I know these are difficult and uncertain times, but I believe in our ability to persevere. I believe in the grit that we always talk about when we describe Bobcats. We can do this, together. So, stay strong, keep an eye out for additional information, and let us know how we can help. As I’ve mentioned before, we’re here for you – and I mean it.

Sincerely,

Dr. Hugh Sherman
Dean, College of Business