Letter from the President

March 20, 2020

As classes are scheduled to begin Monday, we continue to tackle the changes required to operate under a "new normal." I am confident we are prepared, given the fluid situation, to provide the tools and instruction needed to complete the Spring 2020 semester. I know our Bearkat community is comprised of dedicated individuals who will rise to the challenges presented to us.

Over spring break, we have been working steadily to prepare for the move to online learning and other remote/digital options. It's been gratifying to learn of the many ways faculty and staff are thinking of our students while transitioning to meet the needs of the moment.

To get started, all students must access Blackboard. If you have not already, please access Blackboard using the follow steps:

  1.   From the SHSU home page, click on Campus Tools.
  2.   From the dropdown menu, click on Blackboard.
  3.   Enter your Sam username and password if prompted.
  4.   Upon entry, your classes will be listed in the My Courses area.

(Blackboard support is available 24/7 online or at 936-294-2780.)

While many things may seem different right now, we will remain here for you. The Health and Counseling Center, Advising, Student Success and the Food Pantry (just to name a few) are still in operation to serve students. Most offices are staffed, however, in order to maintain social distancing, we ask you to please use online, email or phone options to connect with us.

Despite the challenges, I encourage you to continue your college journey. Remember to get plenty of rest, manage stress levels, stay healthy and follow social distancing practices.

I realize the world and your environment have changed dramatically. Yet, given my many years of interacting with SHSU students, I know this – you are positive, enthusiastic and resilient.

The SHSU community looks forward to seeing you "in person" when things return to normal.


Dr Hoyt Signature
Dana G. Hoyt, President