Published February 26, 2021
Wittenberg Community,
I want to thank everyone who was able to attend my post-Board forum last Wednesday, February 17. We had more than 100 employees tune into the virtual update. For those unable to participate, the recorded Microsoft Teams presentation has been posted on the MyWitt faculty/staff portal. Once there, click on Campus Information and then Office of the President.
Throughout the month of February, we have also had the opportunity to experience a wonderful Black History Month programming series thanks to the leadership of Corrine “CJ” Witherspoon, director of our McClain Center for Diversity. I want to thank everyone for their support of this programming and urge attendance at the remaining events, as well as the rescheduled “Keeping it Professional” session on March 6 at 6 p.m. The previous event met with an abhorrent act of hate back on February 11, and I am grateful to our community for its swift denouncement, perseverance, resilience, and ongoing support of each other following the incident. The Wittenberg Police Department is continuing to investigate.
I would also like to remind everyone of Commit to Witt, the annual 24-hour day of giving on March 11, which coincides with our Founder’s Day. During this event, we will be announcing the public kick-off of the largest fundraising initiative in our history: Having Light: The Campaign for Wittenberg University. This is a momentous occasion and one we will celebrate together on March 11. Please enjoy the promo video below and review the recent email from Vice President for Advancement Rebecca Kocher to learn more.
Finally, I want to thank you for your continued due diligence in following our health and safety protocols to slow the spread COVID-19 on our campus. The COVID-19 dashboard we maintain looks better each day because of our community’s efforts.
Best Regards,
Michael Frandsen, Ph.D.
President
Wittenberg University
Tiger Time
The first Tiger Time Break Day will be Thursday, Feb. 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. As previously communicated, the University is offering three respite days instead of the traditional spring break this year. Thursday's event is a Snow Day-themed one with several outdoor activities, including a hot chocolate station. I want to thank our Student Development team and our campus partners for working to make this week's Tiger Time safe and fun for all our students.
#WittStories
Starting last fall, we began a new social media series to reinforce the outcomes of a Wittenberg education leading up to the campaign kickoff. Typically posted on Tuesdays, these brief alumni profiles can be found on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook with more expected on the new, yet-to-be unveiled campaign website. Thanks to all our alumni who have agreed to be profiled as part of this ongoing effort.
Serving Our Community
Our athletics operation has announced that it is offering limited spectator access to home games for indoor sports in the Pam Evans Smith Arena and the 1929 Fieldhouse for Wittenberg students, faculty, and staff members. In addition to these groups, each player/coach will be provided the opportunity to identify two guests to attend home contests. First-come, first-serve sign-up opportunities are available, and all health/safety protocols must be followed. Check your email for sign-up information. Click here to review parameters for attendance and all expectations.
New to Wittenberg
Since the first of the year, we have welcomed a few more new members to our University community. To view the list compiled by the Office of Human Resources, click here.
SAC Shout-Out
The Staff Advisory Council would like to recognize Athletics for the department's diligence in operating and recruiting during a very interesting school year. Since practice guidelines have made it difficult for many sports to conduct business as usual, the department had to be very creative in its efforts to keep student athletes active, engaged, in shape, and motivated. Not only were they involved with our current student athletes, but they were also actively engaged in recruitment. Many sports have brought prospective athletes to visit campus with little opportunities to see our teams interact and were still able to create an unforgettable experience for their families. We commend their efforts for thinking outside the box and being meticulous in their efforts to keep our students safe while also juggling the responsibilities of recruitment.