Planning for 2021

Dear Members of the Carnegie Mellon Community,

This will be my final message in 2020, so let me begin by expressing gratitude to each of you for accomplishing a successful fall semester. Congratulations! Your vigilance in our efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus have paid off.

As we now turn our attention to 2021 and the start of the spring semester, I remind everyone that all of the protocols that we have had in place throughout most of this past year will remain in effect. Currently, due to rising cases, our campus posture remains in its restricted state. Additionally, the university will be closed for the winter break from December 24, 2020 - January 1, 2021.

The spring semester will begin in hybrid mode starting February 1, 2021. Like the fall, the first week of classes will be remote only and conducted via online instruction. It is our expectation that CMU employees who have been working partially or completely remotely will continue in that mode through at least March 31, 2021. As the commonwealth’s requirements evolve, vice presidents, deans and department heads will follow up with specific information pertaining to their divisions, colleges and departments.

Approved on-site research projects continue, while complying with university-wide minimum requirements. All other researchers will continue to operate remotely unless authorized to return to a CMU facility. Should you desire to have your work authorized for a return to campus, please submit a plan for review and approval.

Our COVID-19 website continues to provide the most up-to-date guidance for students and families, faculty, researchers and staff as well as answers to many frequently asked questions.

During this holiday season, let’s continue to take care of and support one another by acting responsibly and practicing all of the safety protocols that have gotten us this far. Like 2020, I am sure that 2021 will offer its share of challenges, but we also have much to look forward to as we embark upon this new year with renewed hope. I wish each of you a safe and joyful winter break with opportunities to rest and recharge.

Best Wishes,

Daryl Weinert
Chief of Staff and Vice President for Strategic Initiatives
COVID-19 Coordinator