Dear Students,
You did it!
You successfully made it through one of the most unusual semesters--to say the least--in the history of IUP. And, you did so with understanding, care for one another, and a sense of humor. (Yes, I've seen you on TikTok.)
I know that many of you miss your IUP family and your campus, especially the Oak Grove. We'll try and keep you supplied with videos and photos of your IUP home throughout the summer, so you don't get too homesick for us, but we hope you do miss us just enough to be excited to come back in the fall. We miss you, too, so, as we share photos of IUP with you, please share photos of your summer study and experiences with us. We want to know what and how you are doing.
While I wish I could guarantee that you'll be back for the fall in exactly the way that past fall semesters have been, I cannot promise you that.
However, I can promise you that we will do everything in our power to provide you with outstanding classes, fun and enriching events of all types, and a community that is all in to support one another. It is our desire to offer face-to-face delivery of coursework and residence halls with active living-learning programming (including a Pet in Residence program), but we also are preparing for residence halls, dining facilities, and classrooms (and classes) that look a little different to keep you safe and healthy. Like everyone without a crystal ball, we just don't know what the health and safety guidelines will be. We will continue to provide updates to you as we know more about our future together.
For those of you continuing IUP coursework this summer, please focus on your studies and do your best. If you need help--academic or otherwise--we're here for you. Keep in contact with your faculty members and your advisor, and if you need us, contact us through iup-hawks@iup.edu. If you're taking a well-deserved break, please be safe and look out for your family, your friends, and your neighbors. I know you've heard it many times, but we are all in this together.
For our newest graduates: I missed you this weekend, and I can't wait to celebrate with you on September 12. I know it's a busy time, but I really encourage you to take some time to enjoy the congratulatory messages from the IUP family to you.
Even if you aren't a graduate, I invite you to share in the joy and pride of the IUP family--your family.
I'll be taking a break from my Wednesday email messages and Friday videos, but I'll be in touch throughout the summer as we move forward with fall planning. See you soon, IUP Hawks!
Michael A. Driscoll
President