OHIO reflects on one year post-COVID

March marks the one-year anniversary of the first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Ohio. In a new video message to the OHIO community, Ohio University President M. Duane Nellis and Athens, Ohio, Mayor Steve Patterson recognize how students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners have adapted to a new way of life over the last year. 

Dr. Nellis praises OHIO students for their patience, flexibility and perseverance, as well as for their efforts to support each other during challenging times.

The President also thanks OHIO faculty who worked quickly to successfully move their courses online and staff who adapted to a new normal for their incredible work over the last year. And, he spotlights employees who continued to work on OHIO campuses, such as those in the custodial, culinary and residence life staffs, as well as those providing in-person instruction. 

Dr. Nellis also recognizes OHIO alumni for their continued support of students, including their participation in the Bobcats Take Care effort. 
 

The President also thanks our many community partners for always working closely with the University, especially over the past year, which has been pivotal to our collective success in keeping our community safe. 

“This special relationship we have with local officials helps to keep our students, our university and the surrounding communities safe and strong. I’m honored to work with each of you,” Dr. Nellis said.

The video message also features Athens Mayor Steve Patterson, who recognizes the strength of the city of Athens and Ohio University partnership during the pandemic. 

Both Dr. Nellis and Mayor Patterson ask the OHIO community to continue to follow public health guidelines to ensure our safety this spring and to help move past the pandemic. 

“Bobcats stay safe, be responsible and mask up,” Patterson advises. 

Dr. Nellis also recognizes the personal impact of illness and loss that individuals in the OHIO community may have experienced in the last year. He thanks those entities that provide counseling services to help individuals cope with difficult times.

“I’m honored to be the Ohio University President and I’m forever grateful for all that you have done during the last year,” Dr. Nellis said. “Thank you, and go Bobcats!”