Thank you, veterans

Before I delve into our weekly COVID-19 numbers and campus updates, I would like to take a moment to recognize the students, faculty, staff, community partners and friends who have served or are currently serving our nation.

This week, immediately before our annual Veterans Day program, members of the CMU ROTC raised the honor flag of 1958 graduate Gerald Oehmke, who served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. While it was a somber moment, it was also a celebration of Gerald's love for his classmates and his passion for his alma mater.

Veterans Day is a celebration, and it is an acknowledgment of the incredible sacrifices service members make to protect our country and our freedoms. CMU is proud to be the academic home of more than 500 veterans, current active-duty service members and their dependents, and we are honored to employ many veterans among our faculty and staff.

Thank you for choosing to set the leadership standard for dedication, passion and service.

Thank you to everyone who registered for an appointment to receive the COVID-19 booster! We have seen a tremendous response from our campus community, and we are excited that so many students, faculty and staff continue to set the leadership standard for protecting themselves and others. If you would like to receive a booster, or if you wish to schedule your first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, appointments are available through the University Health Services Clinic by calling 989-774-6599. Flu vaccines also are available.

This week, we have had 39 new cases of COVID-19 at CMU. Please continue to do your part to slow the spread of the virus by using the daily health screen app, wearing your mask and getting vaccinated!

Each week on our campus, there are dozens of opportunities to enjoy activities, events, discussions and performances — it is one of the biggest benefits to being part of this university community.

Next week, we continue to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, and the Native American Programs office is hosting games, discussions and film screenings. I encourage everyone to make time this month to participate and learn more.

Next week, the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will host listening sessions for faculty and staff as part of an effort to gather input for development of CMU's five-year diversity, equity and inclusion strategic plan. Sessions for students will take place later this month. Your feedback is vital to the success of this project — please attend and share your thoughts.

Nominate a student leader

CMU Multicultural Academic Student Services is partnering with PNC Bank to recognize student leaders whose powerful, positive work makes our university a more inclusive and welcoming place.

If you know a student who sets the leadership standard through their words and actions, who is Fired Up about diversity, equity and inclusion, and who exemplifies the spirit of lifting up others, please consider nominating them now.

As we close another week, I want to once again extend my gratitude for all you do to make this a great year at CMU.

Be well,

Bob Davies, Ph.D.

President

Central Michigan University