Dear Morningside Students –

Today, I am announcing that Morningside will shift to online coursework for the remainder of the Spring 2020 semester. There will be no in-person classes. All 2020 May Terms are canceled. Any student with junior or senior status who has not completed a May Term and will graduate by May 2021 will have the requirement waived. 

As part of this decision, Morningside will also close the residence halls effective April 8, 2020, at 12 p.m. Students are encouraged to move out at their earliest convenience. Please visit this website to sign up for a checkout time and for more information. Do not return to campus if you are symptomatic or have been in contact with someone who is.

For those students vacating residence halls, you will be receiving a yet to be determined refund or credit for a portion of your room and board charges. Those details are being worked out and will be communicated to you in the next few weeks.

We do know there are some students for whom leaving campus simply won’t be possible. Rest assured, we will work with these individuals to accommodate those specific, special circumstances. If you are a student who may fall into this category, please contact Residence Life at 712-274-5339.

Please know that these decisions were not easily reached, but are in accordance with the recommendations we have received from local, state, national, and global leaders. I value each and every member of this community. It is important to me that Morningside carries out its mission of civic responsibility by doing our part to stop the spread of COVID-19. As such, these actions are necessary to protect your health and well-being.

As we all prepare to adjust to this new normal, I can’t help but reflect on the many ways this community regularly makes me proud. Often, the source of such pride is also a reflection of the strength found in this community. Strength of character. Strength of minds. Physical strength. Teamwork.

We will always be #MsideProud, but in these strange times, we are also proving that we are #MsideStrong. As you adjust to online learning, discuss these unique circumstances with others, find new ways to connect or assist those in need, serve as essential workers, and adapt to this rapidly changing situation, I’d love to hear what you are up to and how you are feeling. Because you – our Morningside students – are my greatest source of inspiration and motivation. Please email me at reynders@morningside.edu or send me a tweet or DM at @MsidePresident.

My very best to each and every one of you. Follow guidelines and recommendations. Stay home and be well.

John Reynders

President

Morningside College