July 29, 2020
The following communication was sent to undergraduate students on 7/28/20 by Student Affairs.
Dear Students,
We hope this finds you well and enjoying this very different summer. At Simmons, your faculty and staff are united in our commitment to ensuring that your next academic year is memorable and meaningful.
This Fall presents a unique opportunity for you to engage in new and exciting ways. You will be part of the Simmons community and experience what Simmons does best—providing transformative learning that links passion with lifelong purpose.
As you get ready to start the school year, here are some highlights you can expect from Simmons in the coming weeks.
Upcoming Events
Fall 2020 Information Session: Please join University leadership on Monday, August 3rd from 5:30-6:30 pm to learn more about our plans for the Fall. You will hear from President Wooten and get an in-depth look at one of our newly imagined online courses. We will also provide an overview of financial aid, the fun and exciting events being offered by the Office of Student Leadership and Activities, as well activities and services from the Career Education Center. This session will end with a Q&A session to ensure you have all your questions answered. Please register here.
Understanding Your Financial Aid Award and Fall Bills Webinars: This semester’s billing and financial aid packaging is different from pre-pandemic given a tuition freeze, reduction in student fees and no charge for on campus room and board. Join our Director of Financial Aid on Thursday, July 30th from 6:00-7:00pm as she walks students and families through the changes and provides answers to your questions. Please register here.
Digital Campus Tours: Our faculty has worked through the spring and summer to re-imagine their courses on a robust, consistent online learning platform that will be easy for you to use. During the weeks of August 3rd and 10th, students and families will see first hand the look and feel of Simmons’ digital campus. In addition, you’ll be able to ask questions and we will offer helpful tips for successful digital learning and engagement. Stay tuned for more information!
Parents and Families Welcome Week: Beginning the week of August 24th, parents and families will have an opportunity to enjoy some back-to-college fun. During this week, parents and families can attend sessions related to health and wellness options, Student Success Services, and hear tips on living with your college student. We will cap off the week with a Trivia Night. Stay tuned for more details!
Student Welcome Week: We are so excited to welcome students back during the week of August 31st. Students will learn more about everything from Living/Learning Communities to Library services. The Health and Counseling Center will share important information regarding telehealth, counseling, wellness and nutrition that will be offered to students throughout the year. Our Student Life team has designed a variety of activities and engagement opportunities for you to connect with your peers and learn in co-curricular settings, which we will kick off during Welcome Week. Stay tuned for more information!
Leadership Opportunities and Opportunities for Engagement
The Office of Student Leadership and Activities (OSLA) has developed a new leadership development series, planned interesting daily programming, and is looking forward to helping our 50+ student-run organizations get started for a successful year! Watch your email for more information about these programs the week of August 3rd.
Resources
Students will receive information from a number of offices throughout the summer, including the Office of Accessibility Services, Health and Counseling Centers, the Office of Violence Prevention and Education Outreach and the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. Following is a list of resources for your reference:
General questions: If you have any general questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help. If you are not sure who to contact, please email preparedness@abel4simmons.edu and we will ensure a team member reaches out.
This is a unique moment in your life and in Simmons’ history. We are working hard so you can stay safe, connected and on track during the next semester. We are committed to providing ongoing, open channels for communication and student support, and we are confident you will have a successful and vibrant virtual experience this fall.
Warmly,
Catherine Paden, Phd
Deputy Provost and Dean of the Undergraduate Program
Susan M. Antonelli,
Dean of Students
