A trend to continue: Rising vaccination rates

Dear students, colleagues and friends,

I begin this week's message with gratitude for all our students, faculty and staff who have made the choice to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Thank you for setting the leadership standard for health and safety, and for showing your compassion by taking this important step to protect others.

As of today, more than 60% of students have verified their vaccination status, along with over 85% of both faculty and staff. The overall CMU vaccination rate (67%) significantly exceeds the rates for our surrounding community. We would like to see those numbers continue to increase. The delta variant continues to pose significant risk, and vaccines are a safe and effective way to prevent serious illness. If you have not done so already, please stop by the University Center for your free vaccine — walk-in appointments are welcome between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.

As we have seen in recent headlines, breakthrough COVID-19 cases are possible for fully vaccinated people. While these individuals are more protected, they can still become infected and spread the virus to others. It is vital that everyone continue to use the daily health screening app to monitor symptoms. Even if you are fully vaccinated, use the app or contact covidtesting@cmich.edu to schedule a test if you are sick with symptoms of COVID. And continue to wear your masks indoors in public areas.

We are a community committed to protecting and lifting each other up so we must remain vigilant; none of us wants to accidentally infect someone else. Protect yourself and protect others. 

As we enter fall, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Cheer on the CMU football team with the Office of Student Affairs at a live student watch party during the CMU versus Louisiana State University game on Saturday, Sept. 18, in Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. and the game begins at 7:30 p.m. Please be sure to bring your student ID. Good luck, CMU Football!

Next week CMU will host its annual "Fire Up the Vote" voter registration drive. Your vote is your voice in local, state and national elections, and you deserve the chance to be heard. Students from the Central Votes registered student organization will join faculty and staff from the CMU Central Voter Coalition throughout the day on Thursday, Sept. 23, in front of the Bovee University Center to help members of our university community register to vote. I hope you will stop by and Fire Up for active and engaged citizenship!

Participating in the democratic process is not only for students — our faculty and staff set the leadership standard for community involvement as well. I encourage every member of our campus community to consider participating in the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission meeting next Thursday, Sept. 23, in Plachta Auditorium. The decisions that come out of this process will affect voting maps for the next decade, so be sure your voice is heard.

Many of us have experienced going to a favorite restaurant only to find our preferred meal unavailable or longer waits to be seated due to lack of servers. We are getting used to seeing empty shelves at the grocery store. Nationally, worker shortages and supply chain issues have impacted industries ranging from restaurants to retail, and we are feeling those effects at CMU as well.

We all are navigating these challenges together, so please remember to be patient and compassionate with one another. And, if you are a student looking for employment, or you know someone who is seeking a new job opportunity, please consider positions available through Student Employment Services and CMU Human Resources.

CMU celebrated its 129th anniversary on Sept. 13, by kicking off a week of giving. So far, alumni, faculty, staff, families and friends have supported a variety of student scholarships by contributing more than $325,000 — significantly exceeding our goal. Anyone can contribute to support our students — giving back is a great way to show your Fired Up CMU spirit.

We also are in the midst of our annual United Way campaign. For many years, CMU students, faculty and staff have supported our local community by giving to United Way through events such as Dance United and an employee fund drive. You can support children, families, seniors, individuals with disabilities and more right here in our area by making your contribution online today. Fire Up for making a difference!

September is National Self-Care Awareness month, and CMU offers several resources for you to help make a plan to care for your mental health. Students can participate in individual and group activities through the CMU Counseling Center, and faculty and staff can find information about programs and offerings on the CMU Wellness webpage. This is a wonderful time to make self-care a habit you practice throughout the year. 

Be well,

Bob Davies, Ph.D.

President

Central Michigan University