To: CALS undergraduates
From: Dean Kate VandenBosch
Re: Coursework for the rest of the semester

Dear CALS students,
Before instruction resumes on Monday, I wanted to let you know that completing the academic semester is our top priority. As all communities, including UW-Madison, work to contain the COVID-19 virus and safeguard our health, our instructors are working hard over the break to change the ways you will participate in courses and be evaluated at the end of the semester.

This unexpected change in course delivery will likely result in many of you learning new ways to learn. As with all new things, there may be some technical difficulties or other temporary road blocks. But, as is also the case with new things, there will be many opportunities for growth. With so many universities switching to distance learning at this point in the semester, you will be part of a generation of college students pioneering these remote classrooms, and we are here to support you.

I would like to thank you in advance for your patience and your flexibility. The Office of Academic Affairs staff continue to be available during spring break and beyond to provide assistance and advising, including Dean on Call.  For assistance, please reach out to them via e-mail (academicaffairs@cals.wisc.edu).

We also know this may be presenting financial hardships for some students, and the university has resources to assist you. Information is available on the COVID-19 website and by contacting CALS Academic Affairs.

I know that seniors may be wondering about spring commencement plans. With constantly changing conditions, it is too soon to make a decision about commencement. The university is actively working on contingency plans if needed and will communicate those plans at the appropriate time.

I know that a significant part of the Wisconsin Experience is to be on our beautiful campus, taking advantage of seminars, research experiences and community building activities. Empathy and purposeful action are also part of the Wisconsin Experience. This shift in our semester is evidence of how the UW-Madison community cares for the heath of others. I challenge all of you to find ways to redefine the Wisconsin Experience so that it lives wherever you may be learning.

This is not the spring break any of use expected, but we are all in this together. You can find the latest campus news at covid19.wisc.edu. Be safe and do all you can to protect your health and the health of others.

Sincerely,

Dean Kate VandenBosch

This article was posted in A Message from the Dean.