August 16, 2020
Dear Students in the College of Veterinary Medicine,
I am writing with a reminder that for the past several months, faculty and staff in CVM have worked extremely hard so that you could return this fall for in-person classes, on-campus programs and other activities. This was the overwhelming preference that we heard from students, and we have done our best to make it a reality. But now, it is up to you to help make the semester a success.
This weekend, I personally witnessed and have seen numerous reports of ISU students gathering to “celebrate” the beginning of the fall semester. Please understand that I suspect most of this behavior is occurring among the undergraduate population. But as professional and graduate students, you too must remember that these behaviors are risky during this pandemic. Not wearing face coverings, gathering in large groups, and not observing social distancing is unacceptable, and it reduces our chance to complete the semester on campus.
I ask you to be diligent in following the Cyclones Care behaviors - wearing your face covering, staying six feet apart from others, avoiding large gatherings and staying home if you are sick. Please encourage your friends and classmates to do the same.
Failure to do so puts the health and safety of our faculty, staff, students, and greater Ames community at risk. Frankly, irresponsible behavior increases the chance that we will have to move classes online. You play a major role in the success of the fall semester.
Thank you for your continued cooperation,
Dan Grooms DVM, PhD
Dr. Stephen G. Juelsgaard Dean Of Veterinary Medicine