March 16, 2020 -- STUDENT UPDATE

I’m writing on behalf of the COVID-19 Task Force to let you know that we have made the difficult decision to deliver all classes online for the rest of the semester. We believe that this is in the best interest of PNCA students, faculty, and staff, our friends, families, and communities during this unprecedented time. We recognize that this is disappointing and will present some challenges.

This week, faculty are working hard to make plans for the online educational model that will start the week of March 30. We will share more about these plans as they evolve. For now, we want you to know that we will be responsive, attentive, and flexible to your needs. We will ensure that grading is done with thoughtfulness, care, and respect. PNCA Faculty are committed to your academic success and creative practice.

At this time we are determining how best to manage Focus Week and Thesis Exhibitions. We will let you know as these plans develop. Sadly, we will not be able to hold Commencement this spring. We are considering holding a ceremony at a later date once this current crisis has passed.

Please note that most staff and faculty will be working remotely. Please contact them via email.

Here are some other things to keep in mind:

BUILDING ACCESS

The 511 Building and the Glass Building will remain accessible this week (March 16 - 20) so that you may work in the shops and studios, and collect materials, works-in-progress, etc, that you will need to complete your work off site for the next six weeks. Friday at 5 pm, both buildings will close for the rest of the semester.

After Friday, if you must access a building to retrieve something, please contact Jackson Seemayer in Student Life. jseemayer@willamette.edu

LIBRARY

This closure also affects the Library. If you need physical library materials, please check those out this week. You will be able to access online materials, as well as the ASC and Tutoring through virtual appointments. Please contact the Library at library@pnca.edu.

• Make an online ASC appointment here: https://calendly.com/pnca-support/remote-asc?month=2020-03&back=1.
• Make an appointment with our Writing Specialist here: https://calendly.com/pnca-support/asc-remote-writing-specialist?month=2020-03

TECHNOLOGY Please use this week to make sure that you have the appropriate technology and Internet connection to access your online classes. Classes will be delivered via Zoom. If you aren’t sure how to use this platform, contact Technology (pnca-help@willamette.edu) for support.

If you have a concern about your computer capability, please contact Technology immediately. They will help you find a workable solution.

STUDENT LIFE & MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING

Student Life will continue to offer a wide range of support for students, as well as access to our mental health counselors by phone, email or Google Hangouts. You can find out more by contacting the Student Life Office at pnca-student-life@willamette.edu.

ART HOUSE

Art House will remain open for its residents until the end of the semester. If you are an Art House resident and have questions or concerns, contact gmurphy_reslife@pnca.edu.

CAMPUS SAFETY

Campus Safety will remain on duty during the rest of the semester. Please reach out to them with any concerns as you normally would at campussafety@pnca.edu. Please continue to practice good hygiene and social distancing, and check Homeroom and the PNCA website for updates. Thank you for your patience and perseverance. Our creativity and support for each other will serve us well as we face this challenge together.