Unique Semester Calls for Unity, Respect

Zac Burden, student life and development coordinator for Residence Life, mayor of Kirksville and Truman folklore enthusiast, gives a brief look at how the University has overcome challenges in the past and why Truman will be successful during the current school year.

Many students, faculty and staff have returned to campus this semester, in some cases, for the first time in months. While in-person classes are resuming, it is important to remember things are not entirely “back to normal.”

Truman has already taken a number of steps to prevent exposure to and spread of the coronavirus, including: hand sanitizing stations throughout campus; the placement of plexiglass barriers in many in-person locations; social distancing of classrooms; controlled entrance and exit points in many high-traffic areas; and increased sanitation protocols; among others. The University’s complete guide for returning to campus can be found on the Fall 2020 website.

Individuals can do their part by: wearing a mask; maintaining social distance whenever possible; washing their hands often; doing a daily symptom check; and avoiding campus if they have any symptoms.

If the entire campus community takes a responsible approach, Truman can successfully complete the semester in person.