Dear Tusculum family,
We hope all of you are handling the circumstances presented by Hurricane Helene as well as possible. Some members of the Tusculum family have experienced extreme circumstances, and we extend our sympathy, prayers and offers of assistance to them in whatever way we can.
We have good news to report on the water front. Service has been restored on campus, and the Facilities Management Department has worked diligently to perform the necessary work to make the restrooms, showers and sink faucets available for use again.
As a result, we are sharing the following updates on operational plans for the university:
- Classes will continue to be taught in an online format through Tuesday, Oct. 15. In-person classes will resume Wednesday, Oct. 16.
- Residential students have the option to return to campus in advance or wait until the resumption of in-person classes. We encourage students to come back to campus if they are able. Some of the in-season athletic teams are developing a staggered approach for their return to campus. Important note: All residential students must check in with the Office of Student Affairs when they return.
- All employees will return to their offices Monday, Oct. 7. Those who have extenuating circumstances that might prevent their return on that date should consult with their supervisor. Employees who do not have water service at their residence are welcome to use shower facilities on campus. Locker facilities will also be available for those who need to store hygiene items.
- Even though water service has resumed, authorities have said water from the faucets and showers is not acceptable for consumption by mouth. It is safe for showers and laundry. Authorities have issued a boil advisory for water that could be consumed by mouth. Tusculum has supplies of bottled water for anyone who needs them.
- We still need to practice water conservation measures at the request of authorities.
- The cafeteria, which has remained open throughout this time, will continue to be open. It will have brunch and dinner on Monday, Oct. 7, and then return to normal hours Tuesday, Oct. 8.
- The Thomas J. Garland Library will reopen Monday, Oct. 7.
- The Watauga Orthopaedics walk-in clinic in the Meen Center will reopen Monday, Oct. 7.
We encourage you to read Monday’s edition of The Pioneer Press for additional details and updates.
Students should still watch Canvas for updates from their professors, employees should stay in touch with their supervisors and all of us should continue to pray for each other. This will enable us to continue effectively and efficiently manage this situation.
We are extraordinarily proud of everyone for supporting each other and pulling together during the last week. It has been inspiring to witness such togetherness and concern for each other’s welfare. Our faculty and students made a smooth transition to online instruction, and staff members have gone above and beyond to keep continuity in operations. Several students and employees have stepped forward to assist the community. You should be proud of yourselves.
We also want to apprise you that you can donate to the Student Emergency Fund and the newly established Hurricane Helene Relief Fund for faculty and staff. You can visit www.tusculum.edu and select the “Give” button at the top of the page. Donations to the Hurricane Helene Relief Fund should be spelled out in the “Other” option in the drop-down menu.
Pressing forward.