Presidential Task Force to Restart MMC

Dear MMC Students, Faculty, and Staff:

The Covid-19 global pandemic has upended lives and altered the world in which we live, learn, and work. As indicated in my message of May 8, 2020, I have established a Presidential Task Force to Restart MMC to prepare for the new educational environment ahead. Dr. Katie LeBesco, Associate Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, has graciously agreed to serve as the Chair of the Task Force.

I have charged the Task Force with developing a Fall 2020 Restart Plan to restore MMC’s education delivery and business operations in a way that makes the health, safety, and well-being of the MMC community and our guests the top priority. The Restart Plan will be based on the guidance and directives of government and public health officials, as well as the College’s own standards for testing, treatment, tracing, and similar considerations. As such, the Plan will explore multiple scenarios for a Fall 2020 restart that include an on-campus, in-person start (as announced) and other models, such as partially or fully restarted campus facilities with modified learning and working modes.

I expect to provide you with an update in mid-June regarding the Fall 2020 Restart Plan and decisions that have been made in light of the Task Force’s recommendations.

Planning Areas
The Presidential Task Force to Restart MMC comprises six Working Groups whose membership includes many, many members of our college community. The Working Groups are focusing on three main areas, which are critical to an effective Restart Plan:

Area 1: Financial and Operational Planning

  • Working Group on Strategic Financial Planning
  • Working Group on Campus Health and Safety, Personnel, and Operations

Area 2: Educational Planning

  • Working Group on Instructional Technology and Virtual Education
  • Working Group on Student Success
  • Working Group on Academic Administration

Area 3: Marketing and Communications

  • Working Group on Marketing and Communications

MMC Community Involvement and Opportunities for Input
The Presidential Task Force to Restart MMC welcomes ideas and suggestions from members of the MMC community. Please feel free to share your ideas through the Idea Catcher on the Presidential Task Force webpage.

There will also be several Restart MMC Town Halls for students, faculty, and staff over the coming weeks. All are encouraged to participate. Please monitor your MMC email for dates, times, and Zoom links.

In closing, I want to thank Katie LeBesco, the members of the Task Force, and all of you who will be participating, directly and indirectly, in the work of restarting MMC. Now more than ever, I feel fortunate to belong to a college community that’s passionately dedicated to creating a transformative, one-of-a-kind experience—a Marymount Manhattan education.

Sincerely,

Kerry Walk, Ph.D.
President

Published: May 26, 2020