Letter from the President

March 27, 2020

We resumed classes this week under a very different reality. One filled with Zoom meetings, new remote learning formats, virtual engagement, online services and the list goes on. Given this was a difficult week for everyone; I want to commend the university community for rising to the challenge and helping make things work.

Within an incredibly short timeframe, the faculty did an amazing job adapting courses and encouraging student engagement. In a world now characterized by self-isolation and distancing, the depth of caring found among our faculty is truly inspiring.

Our SHSU staff has always made things happen. Student-centered and service-oriented, the staff applied an extraordinary level of energy to the many challenges faced during the initial transitioning of classes. Through all the hours of hard work, their commitment never wavered.

I walked the campus this week. It was very hard to reconcile the quiet, almost desolate landscape against the high-level of activity you would expect this time of year. When I did happen to cross paths with students, I took the opportunity to interact. During those conversations, I heard students speak about being anxious due to the changes and uncertainty this pandemic has brought. They also recognized and appreciated all of the work being done to ensure their dreams of a university education can still happen.

I understand how stressful things are right now. I can only encourage you to look for the positive, both at work and home. It is also critical for us all to continue to reach out and stay connected in this new, virtual age of self-distancing. Once the crisis subsides, it is my most sincere hope that all our efforts to maintain an engaged, quality academic environment will leave us stronger and closer as a community.

Stay safe and healthy,



Dana G. Hoyt, President