Aug. 27 Safe Return update

Dear Colleagues,

There’s lots of excitement as we prepare for our opening week! Welcome to all of our new colleagues, faculty and staff, who have joined our Saints family since we were last together in celebration. As we think about our mission of transforming lives, we are excited to announce our Value of the Year, Love of Learning, a celebration of new perspectives and curious minds. The world continues to evolve at record-breaking speed, new knowledge, new discoveries- so much to consider as we prepare to welcome a new class of first-year students and our returning students across our programs and sites.

Message to our Saints who have served in Afghanistan

At the same time we celebrate our return this fall, our country is facing many difficult challenges with the US decision to withdraw from Afghanistan after two decades of conflict. Our hearts and prayers go out to those military veterans and civilians among our Saints community who may have served there, for those who have lost much, and for the family members and friends connected to the Afghan people and their home. While many in the CSS community may not fully understand what our active military, veterans, and related communities are feeling and experiencing at this difficult time, you have our love and support as you navigate these complicated waters.

COVID vaccination requirements for our students

The following message was sent to our Student community earlier this afternoon which outlines our decision to add the COVID-19 vaccine to the list of required immunizations. Please take the time to read through this important communication which outlines how students can submit proof of their vaccination and who they can talk to should they have any anxieties or concerns.  Additional details of the process and procedures are still being worked out and will be communicated to students soon. We’re also engaged in many thoughtful conversations with our faculty and staff about vaccination requirements for our employees; this is an ongoing discussion.

Thank you to the Saints Rise Up steering committee for their continued support, discussion, and guidance as we prepare to welcome back our community!

As we return this fall, I cannot express enough my gratitude for all the ways in which you help us exemplify our Benedictine values and support our community at large. It’s been some time since we have been together in person in community, and hence how each of you have lived out our values during the pandemic may not always have been visible, but from the many stories I have heard, we are truly blessed by the compassion, support and love you have shown throughout this time.

I am looking forward to seeing you all soon. Have a wonderful weekend, stay safe and well.

Barbara