Dear Colleagues,

As our faculty continues to prepare for tomorrow’s transition to distance learning, I have communicated my thanks to all of them for their diligent approach to that effort. From attitude to aptitude to adaptability, you have all shown simply amazing receptivity to this dramatic change with so little advance notice.

Of course, this transition would have been impossible but for the imaginations and the patient, conscientious and tireless work of our colleagues in Information Technology. I have heard kudos from throughout the faculty for the exceptional work of our IT staff. You are rock stars!

Equally amazing have been the efforts of the entire college staff in every division. From one end of campus to the other, our wonderful professional and support staffs have risen to the occasion, finding creative ways to continue the work of the College undaunted, remaining engaged with our students, and continuing to relentlessly pursue our future Grizzlies. To every single member of the college staff, please know that your above-and-beyond efforts are recognized and genuinely appreciated.

Here’s a quick update to keep everyone as informed as possible.

• Over 70 faculty participated in training (in person and remotely) to practice pedagogical and technological strategies to employ during our period of distance learning.
• Campus Life, Student Success, and others are developing daily ways to engage with students from afar. Follow social media to see those creative efforts.
• All campus buildings are locked and will accessible by card only for the individuals who work in those buildings. Exceptions are Old Main and the Welcome Center, which will remain open during business hours.
• Spurlock and the Fitness Center are unavailable for use by students, faculty, staff, and community members, other than to those who need to access their Spurlock offices.
• All students who have been studying abroad are either home or are making arrangements to return home. They will return to their permanent residences and will be continuing coursework remotely.

Each administrative division is making appropriate arrangements for staff who report to work on campus and/or work remotely to continue the important on-going business of the College. I have asked Cabinet colleagues to also work patiently with staff members as they work through associated personal issues such as child care, and I appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as we do so.

Finally, I think it’s important to acknowledge the wonderful positive attitude that everyone in the college community has brought to this challenge. While there is much understandable anxiety around us, it is being evened by the focused, determined and collaborative efforts by colleagues—all with goodwill and good humor—throughout the campus.  Thank you all!

Kerry Prather

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Kerry N. Prather | President

Franklin College
101 Branigin Boulevard, Franklin, Indiana 46131-2623
FranklinCollege.edu |  317.738.8010