Wayne State University, like many other institutions, is adapting to heightened concerns about the coronavirus. Large events are being postponed, academic schedules changed, remote instruction instituted (where possible), and some employees will be working remotely. The health and safety of students, faculty, and staff are paramount.

The university is extending the Spring Break by one week for classes that meet in person. For online students, the intended schedule remains the same. This is the wording of the statement from the Provost last night:

We are escalating our institutional response to protect our entire community by suspending face-to-face class meetings. All face-to-face classes are cancelled for the week of Monday, March 16 through Sunday, March 22. This will allow instructors time to adapt their syllabi and delivery methods in transition to online and remote instruction methods. Classes that started the semester online may proceed normally during this period.

As you know, most SIS classes are online. For those of you in face-to-face classes in or out of SIS, please look for updates from your instructor.

Our Student Services staff and I will continue to be accessible, though our presence in the offices will be reduced. We all are experienced at remote work, though, so please do continue to contact us by e-mail and phone.

For those planning to attend Commencement at the end of April, please be aware that some events of that magnitude are being changed or postponed. We have heard no specific announcement from the university administration about the event and if it takes place, SIS will also have some festivities.

We will continue to keep you updated as developments emerge.

Best wishes for the remainder of your Spring Break and for a fruitful remaining semester! And above all, stay healthy!

- Tom Walker, Associate Dean, SIS