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Greetings, everyone!
I just returned to Greenville after nearly four weeks of preaching in camps and churches, and I’m very excited that in just over a week, many of you will begin joining me here on campus, and I can’t wait. International students return Aug. 15. Student leaders and designated athletes will come in throughout that week, and the rest of you will be here Aug. 21–23.
And what an exciting year we have ahead. We’ll be celebrating the University’s 95th year as an institution and our 75th year here in Greenville. We’re planning a full normal schedule of activities, student organizations, fine arts recitals and productions and a planned normal sports schedule.
By the way, the Bruins athletics are celebrating their 10th year here in Greenville, so watch for upcoming special events.
We’ll have chapel three or four times a week. Our theme this semester is “Refresh,” and our focus will be on the important basics of the Christian life.
Several new faculty are joining our team, and we’ll be offering a few new programs. We’ve also renovated some facilities for you over the summer. I know you’ll be excited about seeing them.
In addition to highlighting what you can expect as you return, I do want to clarify what BJU will do in light of changing COVID-19 guidelines from some of our nation’s health officials. There is no doubt COVID-19 continues to pose a real threat which we must take seriously. Bob Jones University will follow the directives of our South Carolina governor and the state legislature.
We are not requiring COVID-19 vaccinations or universal masking when you come this fall. If you personally will feel more comfortable wearing a mask, you are certainly welcome to do so.
We believe personal responsibility like hand-washing, proper rest, good nutrition, covering coughs and a normal caution in social settings is the key to protecting your health. After you arrive, we will provide you clear policies and directions on what to do if you need to be tested for COVID-19 or test positive. We will be fully prepared to care for you, and faculty will enable you to continue classes remotely.
In the meantime, pay attention to what you do and how you feel before you return, and do your best not to bring COVID-19 to campus with you.
We are praying for you as you enjoy the last few days of summer break, and we are very eager to welcome you for the new academic year. See you soon!
