Faculty, Staff and Students,

Greetings to all. As a large population of students returned to our campuses this week, I just want to re-emphasize how excited we have been for this moment, to have everyone back and to be able to offer the best education we can provide. Right now, in Lexington, Hazard and Morehead we are offering face-to-face classes, and we’re again ready to deliver an amazing college experience.

But there is still work to be done. Once again, we are being asked to not only look out for ourselves, but for our fellow students, faculty and staff. COVID-19 infections, particularly those from the Delta variant, are alarmingly high — especially among the unvaccinated population. 

This means we are encouraging you to be vaccinated, to practice your hygiene and social distancing, and to continue to wear your mask indoors. In fact, we are holding an event Tuesday, Aug. 31, from 10 a.m. to noon — “Mask Up, CHS!” — where we will be distributing more masks outside the lobby of Wethington.

We will also continue to provide consistent communications regarding this ever-evolving situation. Students, watch your email inboxes for the Wildcat Rundown. Faculty and staff, you can continue to expect updates from the President, Provost, UKNow and myself. Our message is simple: If you help yourself, it will help others. Get vaccinated and you will help lower the infection rate for your co-workers and students.

Only then will we truly get back to “normal.”

Questions? Haven’t been vaccinated? Need a second shot or a booster shot? Visit our website for information.

In summary, we are thrilled that everyone has returned, but we must continue to be resilient to have the best educational experience possible. I know I can count on you.

Stay safe and well,

Scott